Visual Indicator for Paused Radar Gestures

ABSTRACT

This document describes techniques and systems that enable a visual indicator for paused radar gestures. The techniques and systems use a radar field to enable an electronic device to accurately determine radar gestures, or other movement, by a user. Further, the electronic device can determine certain conditions that can make it difficult for the electronic device to properly determine the user&#39;s radar gestures. When the device includes an application that can be controlled using radar gestures (a radar-gesture application), and the conditions are present, the device can enter a gesture-paused mode. When the device enters this mode, the techniques provide a gesture-paused feedback element on a display, which lets the user know that there is at least one radar-gesture application available or running on the electronic device but that radar gestures cannot presently be used to control the application.

RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of and claims priority to U.S.Non-Provisional patent application Ser. No. 16/912,635, filed Jun. 25,2020, and titled “Visual Indicator for Paused Radar Gestures” which inturn is a continuation application of International Application No.PCT/US2019/049233, filed Aug. 30, 2019, and titled “Visual Indicator forPaused Radar Gestures,” the disclosure of which is incorporated in itsentirety by reference herein.

BACKGROUND

Smartphones, wearable computers, tablets, and other electronic devicesare relied upon for both personal and business use. Users communicatewith them via voice and touch and treat them like a virtual assistant toschedule meetings and events, consume digital media, and sharepresentations and other documents. Further, machine-learning techniquescan help these devices to anticipate some of their users' preferencesfor using the devices. For all this computing power and artificialintelligence, however, these devices are still reactive communicators.That is, however “smart” a smartphone is, and however much the usertalks to it like it is a person, the electronic device is stilldependent on being activated before it can perform tasks and providefeedback. To activate the mobile device, the user typically has to firstpick up the device to make it aware of the user's intention to use theelectronic device. Only after this physical interaction can the devicemake applications and functionality available for the user.Consequently, many electronic devices provide poor user experiencesprior to explicit interaction by the user.

SUMMARY

This document describes techniques and systems that enable a visualindicator for paused radar gestures. The techniques and systems use aradar field to enable an electronic device to accurately determine thepresence or absence of a user near the electronic device and to detect areach or other radar gesture the user makes. Further, the electronicdevice can determine certain conditions that can make it difficult forthe electronic device to properly determine the user's radar gestures.When the device includes an application that can be controlled usingradar gestures, and the conditions are present, the device may enter astate in which radar gestures are paused. When the device enters thisstate, the techniques provide a gesture-paused feedback element. Thegesture-paused feedback element lets the user know that, while there isat least one application available or running on the electronic devicethat can be controlled with radar gestures, the radar gestures cannotpresently be used to control the application. This can also educate theuser about what the electronic device is capable of and allow the userto take advantage of the additional functionality and features providedby the availability of the radar gesture.

Aspects described below also include a method implemented in anelectronic device that includes a display, a computer processor, and aradar system. The method comprises detecting, a gesture-pause trigger,the detecting during a period in which: the radar system provides aradar field through which a radar gesture can be determined and anapplication capable of receiving a control input corresponding to theradar gesture is executing, through the computer processor, on theelectronic device. The method also comprises providing, in response todetecting the gesture-pause trigger, a gesture-paused feedback elementon the display of the electronic device. The gesture-paused feedbackelement indicates that the application cannot receive the control inputcorresponding to the radar gesture.

Aspects described below include an electronic device comprising adisplay, a computer processor, a radar system, and a computer-readablemedia. The radar system is implemented at least partially in hardwareand provides a radar field. The radar system also senses reflectionsfrom a user in the radar field, analyzes the reflections from the userin the radar field, and provides radar data based on the analysis of thereflections. The computer-readable media includes stored instructionsthat can be executed by the computer processor to implement aninput-mode manager. The input-mode manager detects a gesture-pausetrigger. The gesture-pause trigger is detected by the input-mode managerduring a period in which the radar system is providing the radar fieldthrough which a radar gesture can be determined based on the radar dataand during which an application capable of receiving a control inputcorresponding to the radar gesture is executing, through the computerprocessor, on the electronic device. The input-mode manager alsoprovides, in response to the detection of the gesture-pause trigger, agesture-paused feedback element on the display of the electronic device.The gesture-paused feedback element indicates that the applicationcannot receive the control input corresponding to the radar gesture.

Aspects described below include a system comprising a display, and anelectronic device that includes, or is associated with means forproviding a radar field that provides radar data, the radar data basedon sensing and analyzing reflections from an object in the radar field.The system also includes means for detecting a gesture-pause triggerduring a period in which the radar system is providing the radar fieldthrough which a radar gesture can be determined based on the radar dataand in which an application capable of receiving a control inputcorresponding to the radar gesture is executing, through the computerprocessor, on the electronic device. The system also includes means forproviding, in response to the detection of the gesture-pause trigger, agesture-paused feedback element on the display of the electronic device.The gesture-paused feedback element indicates that the applicationcannot receive the control input corresponding to the radar gesture.

This summary is provided to introduce simplified concepts concerning thevisual indicator for paused radar gestures, which is further describedbelow in the Detailed Description and Drawings. This summary is notintended to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter,nor is it intended for use in determining the scope of the claimedsubject matter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The details of one or more aspects of a visual indicator for pausedradar gestures are described in this document with reference to thefollowing drawings. The same numbers are used throughout the drawings toreference like features and components:

FIG. 1 illustrates an example environment in which techniques enablingthe visual indicator for paused radar gestures can be implemented.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example implementation of an electronic device,including a radar system, that can implement the visual indicator forpaused radar gestures.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example implementation of the radar system ofFIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 4 illustrates example arrangements of receiving antenna elementsfor the radar system of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 illustrates additional details of an example implementation ofthe radar system of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example scheme that can be implemented by theradar system of FIGS. 1 and 2.

FIG. 7 depicts an example method that enables the visual indicator forpaused radar gestures.

FIGS. 8-14 illustrate visual elements, which can be presented on thedisplay of the electronic device of FIGS. 1 and 2 when a radar-gestureapplication is running on the electronic device, to provide feedbackrelated to radar gestures.

FIGS. 15 and 16 illustrate examples of a gesture-paused feedbackelement, which can be presented on the display of the electronic deviceof FIGS. 1 and 2 to alert the user that a radar-gesture application isrunning on the electronic device but radar gestures are currentlypaused.

FIGS. 17-19 illustrate the electronic device of FIGS. 1 and 2 operatingin multiple modes with examples of the visual elements that can bepresented on the display in the different modes.

FIG. 20 illustrates an example computing system that can be implementedas any type of client, server, and/or electronic device as describedwith reference to FIGS. 1-19 to implement, or in which techniques may beimplemented that enable, the visual indicator for paused radar gestures.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Overview

This document describes techniques and systems that enable a visualindicator for paused radar gestures. The described techniques employ aradar system that detects and determines radar-based touch-independentgestures (radar gestures) that are made by the user. The techniques alsodetermine when the device is running an application that can receivecontrol input through radar-based touch-independent gestures (aradar-gesture application). When the device is running a radar-gestureapplication (or has one stored that can be run) and certain conditionsare present, the device may enter a state in which radar gestures arepaused (sometimes referred to as a gesture-paused mode). When the deviceenters this state, the techniques provide a gesture-paused feedbackelement, which gives the user feedback when radar gestures are notavailable to control a radar-gesture application on the electronicdevice.

In this description, the terms “radar-based touch-independent gesture,”“3D gesture,” or “radar gesture” refer to the nature of a gesture inspace, away from the electronic device (e.g., the gesture does notrequire the user to touch the device, though the gesture does notpreclude touch). The radar gesture itself may often only have an activeinformational component that lies in two dimensions, such as a radargesture consisting of an upper-left-to-lower-right swipe in a plane, butbecause the radar gesture also has a distance from the electronic device(a “third” dimension), the radar gestures discussed herein can begenerally be considered three-dimensional.

Using these techniques, the electronic device can provide feedback and anotification to make the user aware of the available radar gestures andprovide feedback regarding the use, success, failure, and results of theradar gestures. In some cases, a determination of the user's absence,presence, or location can also be used to provide a more-responsive andmore-efficient authentication process. For example, the techniquesenable the device to anticipate when the user is ready to beauthenticated and to more-accurately determine when to lock the devicewhen the user is away. Because the described techniques allow theelectronic device to provide the user with useful feedback aboutavailable input modes, interactions may be more convenient and lessfrustrating because the user is aware of the input modes and can beconfident about different ways in which the device can interact andreceive input.

Consider an example smartphone that includes the described radar system.In this example, a radar-gesture application (e.g., an application thathas a capability to receive a control input through radar gestures tocontrol the application) is operating on the electronic device. Examplesof radar-gesture applications include music players, media players, andapplications or features of an electronic device that provide alerts orreminders, such as a calendar or clock. In this example, an input-modemanager causes the electronic device to present a gesture-pausedfeedback element on a display of the device when the device enters thestate in which radar gestures are paused, such as the gesture-pausedmode. The device may enter this gesture-paused state based on variousconditions related to factors such as the velocity, position, or motionof the user or the electronic device. For example, the user may bewalking with the electronic device in a pocket or other container whilethe user's hands are swinging back and forth within a gesture zone ofthe electronic device, which can create ambiguity regarding whether theuser intends to make a radar gesture.

The gesture zone is a volume around the electronic device that is asub-volume of the radar field and within which the electronic device,the radar system, the input-mode manager (or another componentassociated with the electronic device) can determine a radar gesture(e.g., using radar data to determine various parameters of a user'smotion within the gesture zone). The gesture zone may be a thresholddistance, such as within approximately three, five, seven, nine, ortwelve inches. In some cases, the gesture zone may extend differentthreshold distances from the electronic device in different directions(e.g., it can have a wedged, oblong, ellipsoid, or asymmetrical shape).The size or shape of the gesture zone can also vary over time or bebased on other factors such as a state of the electronic device (e.g.,battery level, orientation, locked or unlocked), or an environment (suchas in a pocket or purse, in a car, or on a flat surface).

The gesture-paused feedback element is a user-perceivable element (e.g.,a visual element that is presented on the display of the electronicdevice) that indicates to the user that the radar-gesture applicationson the electronic device are not currently able to be controlled by aradar gesture. These elements can be used to inform the user that acondition has been detected that currently precludes the use of theradar gesture for interacting with the radar-gesture application. Forexample, when a radar-gesture application is running on the electronicdevice, the display may present an icon, a contrasted lighting area(e.g., an area that is brighter or dimmer than the surrounding area), oran area of different or contrasting color (including in some cases, acombination of one or more of these features). When the device enters,or is in, the gesture-paused state, the gesture-paused feedback elementis presented and when the device exits, or is not in, the gesture-pausedstate, the gesture-paused feedback element is not presented.

The described techniques and systems employ a radar system, along withother features, to provide a useful and rewarding user experience,including visual feedback, based on the user's gestures and theoperation of a radar-gesture application on the electronic device.Rather than relying only on the user's knowledge and awareness of aparticular radar-gesture application, the electronic device can providefeedback to the user to indicate the availability, success, or failureof a radar gesture the user made.

Some conventional electronic devices may include sensors, such ascameras, proximity sensors (e.g., capacitive or infra-red sensors), oraccelerometers to determine the location of the user and adjust variousfunctions of the electronic device based on the proximity of the user.For example, the electronic device may provide additional privacy oraesthetic value by turning off a display unless the user is within apredetermined distance. The conventional electronic device, however,typically cannot provide a useful and rich ambient experience that caneducate the user about the capabilities of the electronic device and theuser's interactions with the electronic device. These are but a fewexamples of how the described techniques and devices may be used toenable a visual indicator for paused radar gestures, other examples andimplementations of which are described throughout this document. Thedocument now turns to an example operating environment, after whichexample devices, methods, and systems are described.

Operating Environment

FIG. 1 illustrates an example environment 100 in which techniquesenabling a visual indicator for paused radar gestures can beimplemented. The example environment 100 includes an electronic device102, which includes, or is associated with, a persistent radar system104, a persistent input-mode manager 106 (input-mode manager 106), and,optionally, one or more non-radar sensors 108 (non-radar sensor 108).The term “persistent,” with reference to the radar system 104 or theinput-mode manager 106, means that no user interaction is required toactivate the radar system 104 (which may operate in various modes, suchas a dormant mode, an engaged mode, or an active mode) or the input-modemanager 106. In some implementations, the “persistent” state may bepaused or turned off (e.g., by a user). In other implementations, the“persistent” state may be scheduled or otherwise managed in accordancewith one or more parameters of the electronic device 102 (or anotherelectronic device). For example, the user may schedule the “persistent”state such that it is only operational during daylight hours, eventhough the electronic device 102 is on both at night and during the day.The non-radar sensor 108 can be any of a variety of devices, such as anaudio sensor (e.g., a microphone), a touch-input sensor (e.g., atouchscreen), or an image-capture device (e.g., a camera orvideo-camera).

In the example environment 100, the radar system 104 provides a radarfield 110 by transmitting one or more radar signals or waveforms asdescribed below with reference to FIGS. 3-6. The radar field 110 is avolume of space from which the radar system 104 can detect reflectionsof the radar signals and waveforms (e.g., radar signals and waveformsreflected from objects in the volume of space). The radar field 110 maybe configured in multiple shapes, such as a sphere, a hemisphere, anellipsoid, a cone, one or more lobes, or an asymmetric shape (e.g., thatcan cover an area on either side of an obstruction that is notpenetrable by radar). The radar system 104 also enables the electronicdevice 102, or another electronic device, to sense and analyzereflections from an object in the radar field 110. The radar field 110may be used to provide a recognition zone. The recognition zone is avolume around the radar system 104 that may extend any of a variety ofdistances from the radar system 104, such as approximately three, seven,ten, or fourteen feet (or approximately one, two, three, or fourmeters). The recognition zone may be the same or less than a maximumextent of the radar field 110. The recognition zone may be a static sizeor shape that is predefined, user-selectable, or determined via anothermethod (e.g., based on power requirements, remaining battery life, oranother factor).

In some cases, the recognition zone may be dynamically and automaticallyadjustable (e.g., by the radar system 104, the input-mode manager 106,or another component) based on various factors, such as the velocity orlocation of the electronic device 102, a time of day, or a state of anapplication running on the electronic device 102. The threshold distanceor recognition zone can be determined based on a number of relevantfactors, such as battery level, location of the electronic device,velocity of the electronic device, or data received from one or more ofthe radar system, other sensors, or applications running on theelectronic device.

Some implementations of the radar system 104 are particularlyadvantageous as applied in the context of smartphones, such as theelectronic device 102, for which there is a convergence of issues suchas a need for low power, a need for processing efficiency, limitationsin a spacing and layout of antenna elements, and other issues, and areeven further advantageous in the particular context of smartphones forwhich radar detection of fine hand gestures is desired. Although theimplementations are particularly advantageous in the described contextof the smartphone for which fine radar-detected hand gestures arerequired, it is to be appreciated that the applicability of the featuresand advantages of the present invention is not necessarily so limited,and other implementations involving other types of electronic devices(e.g., as described with reference to FIG. 2) are also within the scopeof the present teachings.

The object may be any of a variety of objects from which the radarsystem 104 can sense and analyze radar reflections, such as wood,plastic, metal, fabric, a human body, or a portion of a human body(e.g., a foot, hand, or finger of a user of the electronic device 102).As shown in FIG. 1, the object is a user 112 of the electronic device102. Based on the analysis of the reflections, the radar system 104 canprovide radar data that includes various types of information associatedwith the radar field 110 and the reflections from the user 112 (or aportion of the user 112), as described with reference to FIGS. 3-6(e.g., the radar system 104 can pass the radar data to other entities,such as the input-mode manager 106).

The radar data can be continuously or periodically provided over time,based on the sensed and analyzed reflections from the object (e.g., theuser 112 or the portion of the user 112 in the radar field 110). Aposition of the user 112 can change over time (e.g., the object in theradar field may move within the radar field 110) and the radar data canthus vary over time corresponding to the changed positions, reflections,and analyses. Because the radar data may vary over time, the radarsystem 104 provides radar data that includes one or more subsets ofradar data that correspond to different periods of time. For example,the radar system 104 can provide a first subset of the radar datacorresponding to a first time-period, a second subset of the radar datacorresponding to a second time-period, and so forth. In some cases,different subsets of the radar data may overlap, entirely or in part(e.g., one subset of the radar data may include some or all of the samedata as another subset).

The electronic device 102 can also include a display 114 and anapplication manager 116. The display 114 can include any suitabledisplay device, such as a touchscreen, a liquid crystal display (LCD),thin film transistor (TFT) LCD, an in-place switching (IPS) LCD, acapacitive touchscreen display, an organic light emitting diode (OLED)display, an active-matrix organic light-emitting diode (AMOLED) display,super AMOLED display, and so forth. The display 114 is used to displayvisual elements that are associated with various modes of the electronicdevice 102, which are described in further detail with reference toFIGS. 8-19. The application manager 116 can communicate and interactwith applications operating on the electronic device 102 to determineand resolve conflicts between applications (e.g., processor resourceusage, power usage, or access to other components of the electronicdevice 102). The application manager 116 can also interact withapplications to determine the applications' available input modes, suchas touch, voice, or radar gestures, and communicate the available modesto the input-mode manager 106.

The input-mode manager 106 can be used to interact with or controlvarious components of the electronic device 102 (e.g., modules,managers, systems, interfaces, or one or more of the non-radar sensors108). For instance, the input-mode manager 106 (independently or throughthe application manager 116) can determine that an application operatingon the electronic device has a capability to receive a control inputcorresponding to a radar gesture (e.g., is a radar-gesture application).The radar gestures may be based on the radar data and received throughthe radar system 104. For example, the input-mode manager 106, or theradar system 104, can use one or more subsets of the radar data todetect a motion performed by a portion of a user 112, such as a hand, oran object, that is within a gesture zone 118 of the electronic device102. The input-mode manager 106 then determines whether the user'smotion is a radar gesture.

The gesture zone 118 is a region or volume around the electronic device102 within which the radar system 104 (or another module or application)can detect a motion by the user or a portion of the user (e.g., theuser's hand 12) and determine whether the motion is a radar gesture. Thegesture zone of the radar field is a smaller area or region than theradar field (e.g., the gesture zone has a smaller volume than the radarfield and is within the radar field). For example, the gesture zone 118can be a fixed volume around the electronic device that has a staticsize and/or shape (e.g., a threshold distance around the electronicdevice 102, such as within three, five, seven, nine, or twelve inches)that is predefined, user-selectable, or determined via another method(e.g., based on power requirements, remaining battery life, or anotherfactor). In other cases, the gesture zone 118 may be a volume around theelectronic device that is dynamically and automatically adjustable bythe electronic device 102, the radar system 104, or the input-modemanager 106, based on factors such as the velocity or location of theelectronic device 102, a time of day, a state of an application runningon the electronic device 102, or another factor. While the radar system104 can detect objects within the radar field 110 at greater distances,the gesture zone 118 helps the electronic device 102 and theradar-gesture applications to distinguish between intentional radargestures by the user and other kinds of motions that may resemble radargestures, but are not intended as such by the user.

A variety of suitable techniques can be used to determine whether themotion is a radar gesture. For example, the input-mode manager 106 (oranother component associated with the electronic device 102) can use theradar data (e.g., one or more subsets of the radar data) to determinewhether the motion meets one or more criteria to be considered a radargesture. The criteria can include various parameters of the motion, suchas a path, shape, length, velocity, or distance from the electronicdevice. In some cases, the input-mode manager 106 determines theparameters for the motion and compares them to gesture data in a gesturelibrary 120 to determine whether the user's motion matches a known radargesture. When the motion does not meet the criteria, it is determinednot to be a radar gesture. In a similar way, when the user's motionmeets the criteria, it is determined to be a radar gesture.

When the motion meets the criteria, (e.g., is determined to be a radargesture), the input-mode manager 106 (or another component associatedwith the electronic device 102) determines whether the radar gesturecorresponds to a control input of the application. The control input isan input, such as a control signal, that corresponds to an action of theradar-gesture application. For example, the control input can correspondto an instruction to dismiss an alert or notification on the display ofthe electronic device, silence a ringer or alarm, or skip to a next orprevious media item. Not every application will have a correspondingcontrol input for every gesture (e.g., a gesture that “works” for oneapplication may not “work” for another application, even if the gestureis properly made). In some cases, the gesture library 120, or anothercomponent, can store relationships between control inputs and radargestures, and the input-mode manager 106 can use the relationships inthe gesture library 120 to determine whether the radar gesturecorresponds to a control input of the application. Thus, a radar gesturemay be successful if it is properly made (e.g., meets the criteria),when it corresponds to a control input of the application, or when theapplication receives and responds to the control input. Note that theradar system 104, or another entity associated with the electronicdevice, can be used to detect various kinds of radar gestures, such as areach, a swipe gesture (a motion that is generally horizontal orvertical with respect to content on the display 114), or an“omni-gesture” (a gesture without a particular orientation with respectto the content).

The input-mode manager 106 can also detect a gesture-pause trigger 122and, in response to the detection of the gesture-pause trigger 122,cause the electronic device to enter the gesture-paused mode and providea gesture-paused feedback element 124 on the display 114 of theelectronic device 102. For example, consider a time period in which theradar system 104 is providing the radar field through which a radargesture can be determined based on the radar data and in which anapplication on the electronic device 102 that is capable of receiving acontrol input corresponding to the radar gesture is executing (e.g.,through the computer processor). When the input-mode manager 106 detectsthe gesture-pause trigger 122 during this time period, the input-modemanager 106 provides the gesture-paused feedback element 124. Theappearance of the gesture-paused feedback element 124 indicates that theapplication cannot perform an action associated with the control input.

The gesture-pause trigger 122 is a condition, or set of conditions, thatwhen present cause the electronic device 102 and/or the radar system 104to enter a gesture-paused mode (e.g., a state in which radar gesturesare paused because the radar-gesture applications cannot perform theaction associated with the control input or, in some implementations,cannot receive the control input corresponding to the radar gesture).Generally, the gesture-pause trigger 122 is a condition that can make itdifficult for the electronic device 102 or the radar system 104 toaccurately and efficiently determine whether a user's motion is a radargesture. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the gesture-pause trigger 122can be an oscillating motion of the electronic device 102 that exceeds athreshold frequency (e.g., above approximately 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.0, or1.5 oscillations per second), such as when the user 112 is carrying theelectronic device 102 while walking or running Other examples of thegesture-pause trigger 122 include a motion of the electronic device at avelocity above a threshold velocity (e.g., above approximately 3, 4, 5,or 10 miles per hour) or an oscillating motion of an object in the radarfield, such as the user 112 (or a portion of the user 112), where theoscillating motion exceeds a threshold frequency (e.g., aboveapproximately 0.25, 0.50, 0.75, 1.0, or 1.5 oscillations per second).

In some implementations, the input-mode manager 106 detects thegesture-pause trigger 122 using the radar data, data from the non-radarsensors 108 (e.g., an inertial measurement unit (IMU), accelerometer,gyroscope), or a combination of both the radar data and the data fromthe non-radar sensors 108. In some cases, the gesture-paused feedbackelement 124 is provided only when the gesture-pause trigger 122 isdetected while the electronic device 102 is within a threshold distanceof the user 112 (e.g., within approximately one, three, four, five, orsix feet of the user 112). The threshold distance from the user may bedetermined using the radar data, data from the non-radar sensors 108(e.g., a proximity sensor or an image-capture sensor), or a combinationof both the radar data and the data from the non-radar sensors 108.

The gesture-paused feedback element 124 is a user-perceivable element,such as a visual element that appears on an active area of the display114. The gesture-paused feedback element 124 can also be (or include) alight element that is not on the display (e.g., a light-emitting diode(LED) or an LED array mounted on a housing or bezel of the electronicdevice), a haptic element (e.g., a vibration element), and/or an audioelement (e.g., a user-perceivable sound). In some cases, thegesture-paused feedback element 124 may be presented at or along an edgeof the display 114. In this document, the phrases “at an edge” and“along an edge” refer to being near or adjacent to an edge (e.g.,adjacent to the edge with no gap or with a gap such as one pixel, twopixels, three pixels, and so forth). The gesture-paused feedback element124 may have any of a variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and other visualparameters or properties. Examples of the other visual parameters orproperties include luminosity, color, contrast, shape, saturation, oropaqueness. Luminosity refers to the brightness of an object asperceived by a human. Modifying the luminosity may include modifyingluminance (e.g., brightness), contrast, and/or opaqueness.

The visual element may have an area that is a portion of the active areaof the display 114 that has a luminosity or other visual property thatis different from a luminosity or other visual property of anotherportion of the display 114 that is proximate to the visual element. Inthis case, the visual element may also have a segment of an exteriorborder that is within a threshold distance from an edge of the activearea of the display. While some of these examples describe thegesture-paused feedback element 124 as presented at or along an edge ofthe display 114, the gesture-paused feedback element 124 may appear at alocation on the display 114 that is not an edge. For example, the edgeof the display 114 may include an area beginning at a border of theactive area of the display 114 and extending a distance from the borderthat is no more than approximately 15 percent of a total length of theborder of the display 114.

In some implementations, the luminosity (or other visual parameter) ofthe gesture-paused feedback element 124 may vary as the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 extends across a distance from the edge of theactive area of the display 114 (e.g., have a luminosity at or along theedge of the display 114 that decreases as the shape extends away fromthe edge, or vice versa). For example, the gesture-paused feedbackelement 124 may be presented as an area of the display 114 that has adifferent luminosity than another area of the display 114 (e.g., an areasurrounding or near to the gesture-paused feedback element 124) and thatis adjacent to the edge of the display 114. In another example, thegesture-paused feedback element 124 may be presented as a line, with apredetermined thickness, that has a different luminosity than thedisplay 114 and that is adjacent to the edge of the display 114. In someimplementations, the gesture-paused feedback element 124 moves on theactive area of the display 114 and the movement of the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 can correspond to the motion of the gesture-pausetrigger 122 (e.g., the velocity, oscillation frequency, or othermovement of the gesture-paused feedback element 124 can correspond tothe motion, velocity, or oscillation frequency of the gesture-pausetrigger 122).

As described above, the gesture-paused feedback element 124 can indicatethat the radar-gesture application cannot receive the control inputcorresponding to the radar gesture. In this case, the user 112 may ormay not have attempted to make a radar gesture. The input-mode manager106 provides the gesture-paused feedback element 124 based on detectionof the gesture-pause trigger 122 and does not require that a radargesture was attempted. Rather, the gesture-paused feedback element 124is an alert to the user that radar gestures are not currently availableto control the radar-gesture applications on the electronic device 102.

Consider an example illustrated in FIG. 1, which shows the user 112within the gesture zone 118. In FIG. 1, a visual feedback element 126 ispresented on an example display 114-1 (e.g., to indicate that the user112, or a portion of the user 112, such as a hand, has been detectedwithin the gesture zone 118 and that at least one radar-gestureapplication is operating on the electronic device 102). In this example,the gesture-pause trigger 122 is shown by a curved, dashed-line arrowthat represents an oscillation of the electronic device 102, caused bythe user 112 walking with the electronic device 102 at the user's side.In another example display 114-2, the gesture-paused feedback element124 is presented in response to the detection of the gesture-pausetrigger 122. As shown on the example display 114-2, the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 is smaller and dimmer than the visual element 126.In other implementations (not shown in FIG. 1), the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 also, or instead, moves back and forth or pulses(periodically grows and shrinks), at a frequency that may match thefrequency of the motion constituting the gesture-pause trigger 122,before returning to the original position when the condition detected asthe gesture-pause trigger 122 ends.

In the example shown in FIG. 1, the gesture-paused feedback element 124and the visual feedback element 126 are both shown as a glowing arealocated at or near a top edge of the display 114. In otherimplementations, the gesture-paused feedback element 124 and/or thevisual feedback element 126 may be another size, another shape, or bepresented at another location. This example shows how the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 allows the user to see that radar gestures arecurrently unavailable to control the radar-gesture applications on theelectronic device 102. Thus, the gesture-paused feedback element 124provides dynamically responsive visual feedback that corresponds to astate of the electronic device 102 (or the radar system 104 or aradar-gesture application), which can improve the experience of the user112 with the electronic device 102.

In some implementations, the gesture-paused feedback element 124 and thevisual feedback element 126 may be the same visual element (e.g., thevisual properties are the same or similar, and only the feedbackfunctions are different). In other implementations, the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 may be presented as an adjustment to a visualelement that is already being presented at or along the edge of theactive area of the display (e.g., the visual feedback element 126). Forexample, in the example shown in FIG. 1, the visual feedback element 126is already being presented. When the gesture-pause trigger 122 isdetected, the visual feedback element 126 may be adjusted to become theexample gesture-paused feedback element 124, such as by changing size,shape, color, or another visual property.

The color of the gesture-paused feedback element 124 may be any suitablecolor that can be visually differentiated from the background of thedisplay 114 on which it is presented. The color of the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 may change based on any of a variety of factors,such as an operational state of the electronic device 102 or an ambientbackground color of the display 114. In some implementations, theinput-mode manager 106 can determine a background color of a region ofthe display 114 on which the gesture-paused feedback element 124 is, orwill be, displayed. In response to determining the background color, theinput-mode manager 106 can provide, or cause the display 114 to provide,the gesture-paused feedback element 124 in another color that isdifferent from the background color. The different color of thegesture-paused feedback element 124 can provide human-discernablecontrast between the gesture-paused feedback element 124 and thebackground color to make it easier for the user to see thegesture-paused feedback element 124. In some cases, the input-modemanager 106 can continuously, automatically, and dynamically adjust thecolor of the gesture-paused feedback element 124, based on changes tothe background color.

The gesture-paused feedback element 124, in some implementations, mayappear, at least in part, as a brief animation. For example, thegesture-paused feedback element 124 may appear at the edge of the activedisplay and then grow or shrink before taking on a default appearance.Similarly, the color, luminosity, or shape may change as thegesture-paused feedback element 124 appears or disappears (e.g., if thecondition detected as the gesture-pause trigger 122 ends) before takingon the default appearance.

In some cases, the gesture-paused feedback element 124 may be an imagethat appears on the display 114, rather than an element that appears ina region of the display 114. The image may have visual parameters thatare different from the parameters of an ambient background of thedisplay 114, such as luminosity, saturation, color, and so forth. Inother cases, the ambient background may be an image, and thegesture-paused feedback element 124 is the same image, with differentvisual parameters, such as luminosity, saturation, color, and so forth.In this way, the gesture-paused feedback element 124 can improve theuser's experience by communicating to the user that the electronicdevice is operating in a mode in which radar gestures are currently notavailable for interacting with the electronic device 102. Additionaldetails and examples of the gesture-paused feedback element 124 aredescribed with reference to FIGS. 15 and 16.

The location of visual feedback elements, such as the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 may be determined based on an orientation ofcontent on the display 114. For example, the input-mode manager 106 mayobtain the orientation of the content on the display 114 from theapplication manager 116 (or from another source). The input-mode manager106 can also determine, based on the orientation of the content, adirection of the radar gestures that can be used to interact with thecontent. Based on the direction of the radar gestures, the input-modemanager 106 can cause the display to provide the gesture-paused feedbackelement 124 at a particular edge of the active area of the display 114that corresponds to the direction of the radar gestures. Thus, if thecontext of the displayed content is horizontal (e.g., the direction ofthe radar gesture would be left-to-right or right-to-left), thegesture-paused feedback element 124 is displayed at a top or bottomedge, to help indicate to the user that the radar gestures arehorizontal. Similarly, if the context of the displayed content isvertical (e.g., the direction of the radar gestures would bebottom-to-top or top-to-bottom), the gesture-paused feedback element 124is displayed at a side edge (e.g., a left edge), to help indicate to theuser that the radar gestures are vertical.

Further, the input-mode manager 106 may also be able to detect a changein an orientation of the electronic device 102 with respect to the user.For example, the user may rotate the device from a vertical to ahorizontal orientation to watch a video or from a horizontal to avertical orientation to read an article. Based on the change inorientation, the input-mode manager 106 can cause the display 114 toprovide visual feedback elements, such as the gesture-paused feedbackelement 124 on a different edge of the active display. This differentedge can maintain an orientation and location of the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 with respect to the user (e.g., the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 moves or relocates as the orientation of the userto the device changes). Thus, if the gesture-paused feedback element 124is positioned on a top edge of the display 114 and the user rotates theelectronic device 102, the location of the gesture-paused feedbackelement 124 changes from one edge to another so that it remains on “top”with reference to the user. As noted, the input-mode manager 106 alsotakes into account the orientation of the content, and these featurescan be used in conjunction with each other to provide the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 on the display 114 at the location appropriate forthe orientation of both the content on the display 114 and theorientation of the display 114 with respect to the user.

In some implementations, the input-mode manager 106 can determine thatthe radar-gesture application that is operating on the electronic device102 is operating in an immersive mode, such as a full-screen modewithout any presented controls. In response to this determination, whenthe gesture-pause trigger 122 is detected, the input-mode manager 106can cause the display 114 to briefly or periodically provide thegesture-paused feedback element 124. For example, the display 114 canprovide the gesture-paused feedback element 124 for afeedback-element-presentation time duration and then stop presenting thegesture-paused feedback element 124 for anon-feedback-element-presentation time duration. Both thefeedback-element-presentation time duration and thenon-feedback-element-presentation time duration may be predetermined orselectable. In some cases, the time durations may be user-selectable(e.g., by the user) or selected by the input-mode manager 106 based onvarious factors, such as the type of radar-gesture application runningin the immersive mode (e.g., a game or a streaming media player), thestatus of the radar-gesture application, or the frequency with which theuser employs a radar gesture.

Visual feedback elements, including the gesture-paused feedback element124, may also fade or disappear entirely when the user interacts withthe electronic device 102 using input other than a radar gesture (e.g.,a touch or voice input). For example, while the electronic device 102 isin the gesture-paused state, the user may decide to start anotherapplication using a touch command. In this case, the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 may fade or disappear when the user picks up theelectronic device 102 or touches the display 114. When the user stopstouching the display 114 or puts down the electronic device 102, thegesture-paused feedback element 124 reappears (or brightens) if one ormore radar-gesture applications are operating on the electronic device102 and the gesture-pause trigger 122 is still detected. Thegesture-paused feedback element 124 may reappear or brighten immediatelywhen the touch or voice input ends, or after a selectable time duration.

Visual feedback elements, such as the gesture-paused feedback element124 may be provided while the electronic device 102 is in a locked stateor an unlocked state. For example, the electronic device 102 may providethe gesture-paused feedback element 124 (to indicate that theapplication cannot receive the control input corresponding to the radargesture) when a user is nearby (e.g., within the recognition zone), butnot authenticated, or when an authenticated user is nearby. The lockedand unlocked states refer to a level of access to the electronic device102. A locked state may be a state in which no user in authenticated andanyone using the device will have less than full rights or access (e.g.,no access or rights, or limited access or rights). Examples of thelocked state may include the aware and engaged modes of the electronicdevice 102 as described herein. Similarly, an unlocked state can be astate in which at least one user is authenticated and that user has fullrights and/or access to the device. An example of the unlocked state isthe active mode of the electronic device 102, as described herein. Insome cases, the locked or unlocked state may have varyingcharacteristics, depending on the type, configuration, or status (e.g.,a battery level or a connectivity status) of the electronic device 102.Accordingly, characteristics of the locked and unlocked states fordifferent devices or for the same device in different contexts mayoverlap, or include similar features, depending on those factors.

In more detail, consider FIG. 2, which illustrates an exampleimplementation 200 of the electronic device 102 (including the radarsystem 104, the input-mode manager 106, the non-radar sensor 108, thedisplay 114, the application manager 116, and the gesture library 120)that can implement the visual indicator for paused radar gestures. Theelectronic device 102 of FIG. 2 is illustrated with a variety of exampledevices, including a smartphone 102-1, a tablet 102-2, a laptop 102-3, adesktop computer 102-4, a computing watch 102-5, a gaming system 102-6,computing spectacles 102-7, a home-automation and control system 102-8,a smart refrigerator 102-9, and an automobile 102-10. The electronicdevice 102 can also include other devices, such as televisions,entertainment systems, audio systems, drones, track pads, drawing pads,netbooks, e-readers, home security systems, and other home appliances.Note that the electronic device 102 can be wearable, non-wearable butmobile, or relatively immobile (e.g., desktops and appliances).

In some implementations, exemplary overall lateral dimensions of theelectronic device 102 can be approximately eight centimeters byapproximately fifteen centimeters. Exemplary footprints of the radarsystem 104 can be even more limited, such as approximately fourmillimeters by six millimeters with antennas included. This requirementfor such a limited footprint for the radar system 104 is to accommodatethe many other desirable features of the electronic device 102 in such aspace-limited package (e.g., a fingerprint sensor, the non-radar sensor108, and so forth). Combined with power and processing limitations, thissize requirement can lead to compromises in the accuracy and efficacy ofradar-gesture detection, at least some of which can be overcome in viewof the teachings herein.

The electronic device 102 also includes one or more computer processors202 and one or more computer-readable media 204, which includes memorymedia and storage media. Applications and/or an operating system (notshown) implemented as computer-readable instructions on thecomputer-readable media 204 can be executed by the computer processors202 to provide some or all of the functionalities described herein. Forexample, the processors 202 can be used to execute instructions on thecomputer-readable media 204 to implement the input-mode manager 106and/or the application manager 116. The electronic device 102 may alsoinclude a network interface 206. The electronic device 102 can use thenetwork interface 206 for communicating data over wired, wireless, oroptical networks. By way of example and not limitation, the networkinterface 206 may communicate data over a local-area-network (LAN), awireless local-area-network (WLAN), a personal-area-network (PAN), awide-area-network (WAN), an intranet, the Internet, a peer-to-peernetwork, point-to-point network, or a mesh network.

Various implementations of the radar system 104 can include aSystem-on-Chip (SoC), one or more Integrated Circuits (ICs), a processorwith embedded processor instructions or configured to access processorinstructions stored in memory, hardware with embedded firmware, aprinted circuit board with various hardware components, or anycombination thereof. The radar system 104 can operate as a monostaticradar by transmitting and receiving its own radar signals.

In some implementations, the radar system 104 may also cooperate withother radar systems 104 that are within an external environment toimplement a bistatic radar, a multistatic radar, or a network radar.Constraints or limitations of the electronic device 102, however, mayimpact a design of the radar system 104. The electronic device 102, forexample, may have limited power available to operate the radar, limitedcomputational capability, size constraints, layout restrictions, anexterior housing that attenuates or distorts radar signals, and soforth. The radar system 104 includes several features that enableadvanced radar functionality and high performance to be realized in thepresence of these constraints, as further described below with respectto FIG. 3. Note that in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2, the radar system 104, theinput-mode manager 106, the application manager 116, and the gesturelibrary 120 are illustrated as part of the electronic device 102. Inother implementations, one or more of the radar system 104, theinput-mode manager 106, the application manager 116, or the gesturelibrary 120 may be separate or remote from the electronic device 102.

These and other capabilities and configurations, as well as ways inwhich entities of FIG. 1 act and interact, are set forth in greaterdetail below. These entities may be further divided, combined, and soon. The environment 100 of FIG. 1 and the detailed illustrations of FIG.2 through FIG. 20 illustrate some of many possible environments anddevices capable of employing the described techniques. FIGS. 3-6describe additional details and features of the radar system 104. InFIGS. 3-6, the radar system 104 is described in the context of theelectronic device 102, but as noted above, the applicability of thefeatures and advantages of the described systems and techniques are notnecessarily so limited, and other implementations involving other typesof electronic devices may also be within the scope of the presentteachings.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example implementation 300 of the radar system 104that can be used to enable a visual indicator for paused radar gestures.In the example 300, the radar system 104 includes at least one of eachof the following components: a communication interface 302, an antennaarray 304, a transceiver 306, a processor 308, and a system media 310(e.g., one or more computer-readable storage media). The processor 308can be implemented as a digital signal processor, a controller, anapplication processor, another processor (e.g., the computer processor202 of the electronic device 102) or some combination thereof. Thesystem media 310, which may be included within, or be separate from, thecomputer-readable media 204 of the electronic device 102, includes oneor more of the following modules: an attenuation mitigator 314, adigital beamformer 316, an angle estimator 318, or a power manager 320.These modules can compensate for, or mitigate the effects of,integrating the radar system 104 within the electronic device 102,thereby enabling the radar system 104 to recognize small or complexgestures, distinguish between different orientations of the user,continuously monitor an external environment, or realize a targetfalse-alarm rate. With these features, the radar system 104 can beimplemented within a variety of different devices, such as the devicesillustrated in FIG. 2.

Using the communication interface 302, the radar system 104 can provideradar data to the input-mode manager 106. The communication interface302 may be a wireless or wired interface based on the radar system 104being implemented separate from, or integrated within, the electronicdevice 102. Depending on the application, the radar data may include rawor minimally processed data, in-phase and quadrature (I/Q) data,range-Doppler data, processed data including target location information(e.g., range, azimuth, elevation), clutter map data, and so forth.Generally, the radar data contains information that is usable by theinput-mode manager 106 for the visual indicator for paused radargestures.

The antenna array 304 includes at least one transmitting antenna element(not shown) and at least two receiving antenna elements (as shown inFIG. 4). In some cases, the antenna array 304 may include multipletransmitting antenna elements to implement a multiple-inputmultiple-output (MIMO) radar capable of transmitting multiple distinctwaveforms at a time (e.g., a different waveform per transmitting antennaelement). The use of multiple waveforms can increase a measurementaccuracy of the radar system 104. The receiving antenna elements can bepositioned in a one-dimensional shape (e.g., a line) or atwo-dimensional shape for implementations that include three or morereceiving antenna elements. The one-dimensional shape enables the radarsystem 104 to measure one angular dimension (e.g., an azimuth or anelevation) while the two-dimensional shape enables two angulardimensions to be measured (e.g., both azimuth and elevation). Exampletwo-dimensional arrangements of the receiving antenna elements arefurther described with respect to FIG. 4.

FIG. 4 illustrates example arrangements 400 of receiving antennaelements 402. If the antenna array 304 includes at least four receivingantenna elements 402, for example, the receiving antenna elements 402can be arranged in a rectangular arrangement 404-1 as depicted in themiddle of FIG. 4. Alternatively, a triangular arrangement 404-2 or anL-shape arrangement 404-3 may be used if the antenna array 304 includesat least three receiving antenna elements 402.

Due to a size or layout constraint of the electronic device 102, anelement spacing between the receiving antenna elements 402 or a quantityof the receiving antenna elements 402 may not be ideal for the angles atwhich the radar system 104 is to monitor. In particular, the elementspacing may cause angular ambiguities to be present that make itchallenging for conventional radars to estimate an angular position of atarget. Conventional radars may therefore limit a field of view (e.g.,angles that are to be monitored) to avoid an ambiguous zone, which hasthe angular ambiguities, and thereby reduce false detections. Forexample, conventional radars may limit the field of view to anglesbetween approximately −45 degrees to 45 degrees to avoid angularambiguities that occur using a wavelength of 5 millimeters (mm) and anelement spacing of 3.5 mm (e.g., the element spacing being 70% of thewavelength). Consequently, the conventional radar may be unable todetect targets that are beyond the 45-degree limits of the field ofview. In contrast, the radar system 104 includes the digital beamformer316 and the angle estimator 318, which resolve the angular ambiguitiesand enable the radar system 104 to monitor angles beyond the 45-degreelimit, such as angles between approximately −90 degrees to 90 degrees,or up to approximately −180 degrees and 180 degrees. These angularranges can be applied across one or more directions (e.g., azimuthand/or elevation). Accordingly, the radar system 104 can realize lowfalse-alarm rates for a variety of different antenna array designs,including element spacings that are less than, greater than, or equal tohalf a center wavelength of the radar signal.

Using the antenna array 304, the radar system 104 can form beams thatare steered or un-steered, wide or narrow, or shaped (e.g., as ahemisphere, cube, fan, cone, or cylinder). As an example, the one ormore transmitting antenna elements (not shown) may have an un-steeredomnidirectional radiation pattern or may be able to produce a wide beam,such as the wide transmit beam 406. Either of these techniques enablethe radar system 104 to illuminate a large volume of space. To achievetarget angular accuracies and angular resolutions, however, thereceiving antenna elements 402 and the digital beamformer 316 can beused to generate thousands of narrow and steered beams (e.g., 2000beams, 4000 beams, or 6000 beams), such as the narrow receive beam 408.In this way, the radar system 104 can efficiently monitor the externalenvironment and accurately determine arrival angles of reflectionswithin the external environment.

Returning to FIG. 3, the transceiver 306 includes circuitry and logicfor transmitting and receiving radar signals via the antenna array 304.Components of the transceiver 306 can include amplifiers, mixers,switches, analog-to-digital converters, filters, and so forth forconditioning the radar signals. The transceiver 306 can also includelogic to perform in-phase/quadrature (I/Q) operations, such asmodulation or demodulation. The transceiver 306 can be configured forcontinuous wave radar operations or pulsed radar operations. A varietyof modulations can be used to produce the radar signals, includinglinear frequency modulations, triangular frequency modulations, steppedfrequency modulations, or phase modulations.

The transceiver 306 can generate radar signals within a range offrequencies (e.g., a frequency spectrum), such as between 1 gigahertz(GHz) and 400 GHz, between 4 GHz and 100 GHz, or between 57 GHz and 63GHz. The frequency spectrum can be divided into multiple sub-spectrathat have a similar bandwidth or different bandwidths. The bandwidthscan be on the order of 500 megahertz (MHz), 1 GHz, 2 GHz, and so forth.As an example, different frequency sub-spectra may include frequenciesbetween approximately 57 GHz and 59 GHz, 59 GHz and 61 GHz, or 61 GHzand 63 GHz. Multiple frequency sub-spectra that have a same bandwidthand may be contiguous or non-contiguous may also be chosen forcoherence. The multiple frequency sub-spectra can be transmittedsimultaneously or separated in time using a single radar signal ormultiple radar signals. The contiguous frequency sub-spectra enable theradar signal to have a wider bandwidth while the non-contiguousfrequency sub-spectra can further emphasize amplitude and phasedifferences that enable the angle estimator 318 to resolve angularambiguities. The attenuation mitigator 314 or the angle estimator 318may cause the transceiver 306 to utilize one or more frequencysub-spectra to improve performance of the radar system 104, as furtherdescribed with respect to FIGS. 5 and 6.

A power manager 320 enables the radar system 104 to conserve powerinternally or externally within the electronic device 102. In someimplementations, the power manager 320 communicates with the input-modemanager 106 to conserve power within either or both of the radar system104 or the electronic device 102. Internally, for example, the powermanager 320 can cause the radar system 104 to collect data using apredefined power mode or a specific gesture-frame update rate. Thegesture-frame update rate represents how often the radar system 104actively monitors the external environment by transmitting and receivingone or more radar signals. Generally speaking, the power consumption isproportional to the gesture-frame update rate. As such, highergesture-frame update rates result in larger amounts of power beingconsumed by the radar system 104.

Each predefined power mode can be associated with a particular framingstructure, a particular transmit power level, or particular hardware(e.g., a low-power processor or a high-power processor). Adjusting oneor more of these affects the radar system's 104 power consumption.Reducing power consumption, however, affects performance, such as thegesture-frame update rate and response delay. In this case, the powermanager 320 dynamically switches between different power modes such thatgesture-frame update rate, response delay and power consumption aremanaged together based on the activity within the environment. Ingeneral, the power manager 320 determines when and how power can beconserved, and incrementally adjusts power consumption to enable theradar system 104 to operate within power limitations of the electronicdevice 102. In some cases, the power manager 320 may monitor an amountof available power remaining and adjust operations of the radar system104 accordingly. For example, if the remaining amount of power is low,the power manager 320 may continue operating in a lower-power modeinstead of switching to a higher-power mode.

The lower-power mode, for example, may use a lower gesture-frame updaterate on the order of a few hertz (e.g., approximately 1 Hz or less than5 Hz) and consume power on the order of a few milliwatts (mW) (e.g.,between approximately 2 mW and 4 mW). The higher-power mode, on theother hand, may use a higher gesture-frame update rate on the order oftens of hertz (Hz) (e.g., approximately 20 Hz or greater than 10 Hz),which causes the radar system 104 to consume power on the order ofseveral milliwatts (e.g., between approximately 6 mW and 20 mW). Whilethe lower-power mode can be used to monitor the external environment ordetect an approaching user, the power manager 320 may switch to thehigher-power mode if the radar system 104 determines the user isstarting to perform a gesture. Different triggers may cause the powermanager 320 to dynamically switch between the different power modes.Example triggers include motion or the lack of motion, appearance ordisappearance of the user, the user moving into or out of a designatedregion (e.g., a region defined by range, azimuth, or elevation), achange in velocity of a motion associated with the user, or a change inreflected signal strength (e.g., due to changes in radar cross section).In general, the triggers that indicate a lower probability of the userinteracting with the electronic device 102 or a preference to collectdata using a longer response delay may cause a lower-power mode to beactivated to conserve power.

Each power mode can be associated with a particular framing structure.The framing structure specifies a configuration, scheduling, and signalcharacteristics associated with the transmission and reception of theradar signals. In general, the framing structure is set up such that theappropriate radar data can be collected based on the externalenvironment. The framing structure can be customized to facilitatecollection of different types of radar data for different applications(e.g., proximity detection, feature recognition, or gesturerecognition). During inactive times throughout each level of the framingstructure, the power-manager 320 can turn off the components within thetransceiver 306 in FIG. 3 to conserve power. The framing structureenables power to be conserved through adjustable duty cycles within eachframe type. For example, a first duty cycle can be based on a quantityof active feature frames relative to a total quantity of feature frames.A second duty cycle can be based on a quantity of active radar framesrelative to a total quantity of radar frames. A third duty cycle can bebased on a duration of the radar signal relative to a duration of aradar frame.

Consider an example framing structure (not illustrated) for thelower-power mode that consumes approximately 2 mW of power and has agesture-frame update rate between approximately 1 Hz and 4 Hz. In thisexample, the framing structure includes a gesture frame with a durationbetween approximately 250 ms and 1 second. The gesture frame includesthirty-one pulse-mode feature frames. One of the thirty-one pulse-modefeature frames is in the active state. This results in the duty cyclebeing approximately equal to 3.2%. A duration of each pulse-mode featureframe is between approximately 8 ms and 32 ms. Each pulse-mode featureframe is composed of eight radar frames. Within the active pulse-modefeature frame, all eight radar frames are in the active state. Thisresults in the duty cycle being equal to 100%. A duration of each radarframe is between approximately 1 ms and 4 ms. An active time within eachof the active radar frames is between approximately 32 μs and 128 μs. Assuch, the resulting duty cycle is approximately 3.2%. This exampleframing structure has been found to yield good performance results.These good performance results are in terms of good gesture recognitionand presence detection while also yielding good power efficiency resultsin the application context of a handheld smartphone in a low-powerstate. Based on this example framing structure, the power manager 320can determine a time for which the radar system 104 is not activelycollecting radar data. Based on this inactive time period, the powermanager 320 can conserve power by adjusting an operational state of theradar system 104 and turning off one or more components of thetransceiver 306, as further described below.

The power manager 320 can also conserve power by turning off one or morecomponents within the transceiver 306 (e.g., a voltage-controlledoscillator, a multiplexer, an analog-to-digital converter, a phase lockloop, or a crystal oscillator) during inactive time periods. Theseinactive time periods occur if the radar system 104 is not activelytransmitting or receiving radar signals, which may be on the order ofmicroseconds (μs), milliseconds (ms), or seconds (s). Further, the powermanager 320 can modify transmission power of the radar signals byadjusting an amount of amplification provided by a signal amplifier.Additionally, the power manager 320 can control the use of differenthardware components within the radar system 104 to conserve power. Ifthe processor 308 comprises a lower-power processor and a higher-powerprocessor (e.g., processors with different amounts of memory andcomputational capability), for example, the power manager 320 can switchbetween utilizing the lower-power processor for low-level analysis(e.g., implementing the idle mode, detecting motion, determining alocation of a user, or monitoring the environment) and the higher-powerprocessor for situations in which high-fidelity or accurate radar datais requested by the input-mode manager 106 (e.g., for implementing theaware mode, the engaged mode, or the active mode, gesture recognition oruser orientation).

Further, the power manager 320 can determine a context of theenvironment around the electronic device 102. From that context, thepower manager 320 can determine which power states are to be madeavailable and how they are configured. For example, if the electronicdevice 102 is in a user's pocket, then although the user is detected asbeing proximate to the electronic device 102, there is no need for theradar system 104 to operate in the higher-power mode with a highgesture-frame update rate. Accordingly, the power manager 320 can causethe radar system 104 to remain in the lower-power mode, even though theuser is detected as being proximate to the electronic device 102 andcause the display 114 to remain in an off or other lower-power state.The electronic device 102 can determine the context of its environmentusing any suitable non-radar sensor 108 (e.g., gyroscope, accelerometer,light sensor, proximity sensor, capacitance sensor, and so on) incombination with the radar system 104. The context may include time ofday, calendar day, lightness/darkness, number of users near the user,surrounding noise level, speed of movement of surrounding objects(including the user) relative to the electronic device 102, and soforth).

FIG. 5 illustrates additional details of an example implementation 500of the radar system 104 within the electronic device 102. In the example500, the antenna array 304 is positioned underneath an exterior housingof the electronic device 102, such as a glass cover or an external case.Depending on its material properties, the exterior housing may act as anattenuator 502, which attenuates or distorts radar signals that aretransmitted and received by the radar system 104. The attenuator 502 mayinclude different types of glass or plastics, some of which may be foundwithin display screens, exterior housings, or other components of theelectronic device 102 and have a dielectric constant (e.g., relativepermittivity) between approximately four and ten. Accordingly, theattenuator 502 is opaque or semi-transparent to a radar signal 506 andmay cause a portion of a transmitted or received radar signal 506 to bereflected (as shown by a reflected portion 504). For conventionalradars, the attenuator 502 may decrease an effective range that can bemonitored, prevent small targets from being detected, or reduce overallaccuracy.

Assuming a transmit power of the radar system 104 is limited, andre-designing the exterior housing is not desirable, one or moreattenuation-dependent properties of the radar signal 506 (e.g., afrequency sub-spectrum 508 or a steering angle 510) orattenuation-dependent characteristics of the attenuator 502 (e.g., adistance 512 between the attenuator 502 and the radar system 104 or athickness 514 of the attenuator 502) are adjusted to mitigate theeffects of the attenuator 502. Some of these characteristics can be setduring manufacturing or adjusted by the attenuation mitigator 314 duringoperation of the radar system 104. The attenuation mitigator 314, forexample, can cause the transceiver 306 to transmit the radar signal 506using the selected frequency sub-spectrum 508 or the steering angle 510,cause a platform to move the radar system 104 closer or farther from theattenuator 502 to change the distance 512, or prompt the user to applyanother attenuator to increase the thickness 514 of the attenuator 502.

Appropriate adjustments can be made by the attenuation mitigator 314based on pre-determined characteristics of the attenuator 502 (e.g.,characteristics stored in the computer-readable media 204 of theelectronic device 102 or within the system media 310) or by processingreturns of the radar signal 506 to measure one or more characteristicsof the attenuator 502. Even if some of the attenuation-dependentcharacteristics are fixed or constrained, the attenuation mitigator 314can take these limitations into account to balance each parameter andachieve a target radar performance. As a result, the attenuationmitigator 314 enables the radar system 104 to realize enhanced accuracyand larger effective ranges for detecting and tracking the user that islocated on an opposite side of the attenuator 502. These techniquesprovide alternatives to increasing transmit power, which increases powerconsumption of the radar system 104, or changing material properties ofthe attenuator 502, which can be difficult and expensive once a deviceis in production.

FIG. 6 illustrates an example scheme 600 implemented by the radar system104. Portions of the scheme 600 may be performed by the processor 308,the computer processors 202, or other hardware circuitry. The scheme 600can be customized to support different types of electronic devices andradar-based applications (e.g., the input-mode manager 106), and alsoenables the radar system 104 to achieve target angular accuraciesdespite design constraints.

The transceiver 306 produces raw data 602 based on individual responsesof the receiving antenna elements 402 to a received radar signal. Thereceived radar signal may be associated with one or more frequencysub-spectra 604 that were selected by the angle estimator 318 tofacilitate angular ambiguity resolution. The frequency sub-spectra 604,for example, may be chosen to reduce a quantity of sidelobes or reducean amplitude of the sidelobes (e.g., reduce the amplitude by 0.5 dB, 1dB, or more). A quantity of frequency sub-spectra can be determinedbased on a target angular accuracy or computational limitations of theradar system 104.

The raw data 602 contains digital information (e.g., in-phase andquadrature data) for a period of time, different wavenumbers, andmultiple channels respectively associated with the receiving antennaelements 402. A Fast-Fourier Transform (FFT) 606 is performed on the rawdata 602 to generate pre-processed data 608. The pre-processed data 608includes digital information across the period of time, for differentranges (e.g., range bins), and for the multiple channels. A Dopplerfiltering process 610 is performed on the pre-processed data 608 togenerate range-Doppler data 612. The Doppler filtering process 610 maycomprise another FFT that generates amplitude and phase information formultiple range bins, multiple Doppler frequencies, and for the multiplechannels. The digital beamformer 316 produces beamforming data 614 basedon the range-Doppler data 612. The beamforming data 614 contains digitalinformation for a set of azimuths and/or elevations, which representsthe field of view for which different steering angles or beams areformed by the digital beamformer 316. Although not depicted, the digitalbeamformer 316 may alternatively generate the beamforming data 614 basedon the pre-processed data 608 and the Doppler filtering process 610 maygenerate the range-Doppler data 612 based on the beamforming data 614.To reduce a quantity of computations, the digital beamformer 316 mayprocess a portion of the range-Doppler data 612 or the pre-processeddata 608 based on a range, time, or Doppler frequency interval ofinterest.

The digital beamformer 316 can be implemented using a single-lookbeamformer 616, a multi-look interferometer 618, or a multi-lookbeamformer 620. In general, the single-look beamformer 616 can be usedfor deterministic objects (e.g., point-source targets having a singlephase center). For non-deterministic targets (e.g., targets havingmultiple phase centers), the multi-look interferometer 618 or themulti-look beamformer 620 are used to improve accuracies relative to thesingle-look beamformer 616. Humans are an example of a non-deterministictarget and have multiple phase centers 622 that can change based ondifferent aspect angles, as shown at 624-1 and 624-2. Variations in theconstructive or destructive interference generated by the multiple phasecenters 622 can make it challenging for conventional radars toaccurately determine angular positions. The multi-look interferometer618 or the multi-look beamformer 620, however, perform coherentaveraging to increase an accuracy of the beamforming data 614. Themulti-look interferometer 618 coherently averages two channels togenerate phase information that can be used to accurately determine theangular information. The multi-look beamformer 620, on the other hand,can coherently average two or more channels using linear or non-linearbeamformers, such as Fourier, Capon, multiple signal classification(MUSIC), or minimum variance distortion less response (MVDR). Theincreased accuracies provided via the multi-look beamformer 620 or themulti-look interferometer 618 enable the radar system 104 to recognizesmall gestures or distinguish between multiple portions of the user.

The angle estimator 318 analyzes the beamforming data 614 to estimateone or more angular positions. The angle estimator 318 may utilizesignal-processing techniques, pattern-matching techniques, ormachine-learning. The angle estimator 318 also resolves angularambiguities that may result from a design of the radar system 104 or thefield of view the radar system 104 monitors. An example angularambiguity is shown within an amplitude plot 626 (e.g., amplituderesponse).

The amplitude plot 626 depicts amplitude differences that can occur fordifferent angular positions of the target and for different steeringangles 510. A first amplitude response 628-1 (illustrated with a solidline) is shown for a target positioned at a first angular position630-1. Likewise, a second amplitude response 628-2 (illustrated with adotted line) is shown for the target positioned at a second angularposition 630-2. In this example, the differences are considered acrossangles between −180 degrees and 180 degrees.

As shown in the amplitude plot 626, an ambiguous zone exists for the twoangular positions 630-1 and 630-2. The first amplitude response 628-1has a highest peak at the first angular position 630-1 and a lesser peakat the second angular position 630-2. While the highest peak correspondsto the actual position of the target, the lesser peak causes the firstangular position 630-1 to be ambiguous because it is within somethreshold for which conventional radars may be unable to confidentlydetermine whether the target is at the first angular position 630-1 orthe second angular position 630-2. In contrast, the second amplituderesponse 628-2 has a lesser peak at the second angular position 630-2and a higher peak at the first angular position 630-1. In this case, thelesser peak corresponds to the target's location.

While conventional radars may be limited to using a highest peakamplitude to determine the angular positions, the angle estimator 318instead analyzes subtle differences in shapes of the amplitude responses628-1 and 628-2. Characteristics of the shapes can include, for example,roll-offs, peak or null widths, an angular location of the peaks ornulls, a height or depth of the peaks and nulls, shapes of sidelobes,symmetry within the amplitude response 628-1 or 628-2, or the lack ofsymmetry within the amplitude response 628-1 or 628-2. Similar shapecharacteristics can be analyzed in a phase response, which can provideadditional information for resolving the angular ambiguity. The angleestimator 318 therefore maps the unique angular signature or pattern toan angular position.

The angle estimator 318 can include a suite of algorithms or tools thatcan be selected according to the type of electronic device 102 (e.g.,computational capability or power constraints) or a target angularresolution for the input-mode manager 106. In some implementations, theangle estimator 318 can include a neural network 632, a convolutionalneural network (CNN) 634, or a long short-term memory (LSTM) network636. The neural network 632 can have various depths or quantities ofhidden layers (e.g., three hidden layers, five hidden layers, or tenhidden layers) and can also include different quantities of connections(e.g., the neural network 632 can comprise a fully-connected neuralnetwork or a partially-connected neural network). In some cases, the CNN634 can be used to increase computational speed of the angle estimator318. The LSTM network 636 can be used to enable the angle estimator 318to track the target. Using machine-learning techniques, the angleestimator 318 employs non-linear functions to analyze the shape of theamplitude response 628-1 or 628-2 and generate angular probability data638, which indicates a likelihood that the user or a portion of the useris within an angular bin. The angle estimator 318 may provide theangular probability data 638 for a few angular bins, such as two angularbins to provide probabilities of a target being to the left or right ofthe electronic device 102, or for thousands of angular bins (e.g., toprovide the angular probability data 638 for a continuous angularmeasurement).

Based on the angular probability data 638, a tracker module 640 producesangular position data 642, which identifies an angular location of thetarget. The tracker module 640 may determine the angular location of thetarget based on the angular bin that has a highest probability in theangular probability data 638 or based on prediction information (e.g.,previously-measured angular position information). The tracker module640 may also keep track of one or more moving targets to enable theradar system 104 to confidently distinguish or identify the targets.Other data can also be used to determine the angular position, includingrange, Doppler, velocity, or acceleration. In some cases, the trackermodule 640 can include an alpha-beta tracker, a Kalman filter, amultiple hypothesis tracker (MHT), and so forth.

A quantizer module 644 obtains the angular position data 642 andquantizes the data to produce quantized angular position data 646. Thequantization can be performed based on a target angular resolution forthe input-mode manager 106. In some situations, fewer quantizationlevels can be used such that the quantized angular position data 646indicates whether the target is to the right or to the left of theelectronic device 102 or identifies a 90-degree quadrant the target islocated within. This may be sufficient for some radar-basedapplications, such as user proximity detection. In other situations, alarger number of quantization levels can be used such that the quantizedangular position data 646 indicates an angular position of the targetwithin an accuracy of a fraction of a degree, one degree, five degrees,and so forth. This resolution can be used for higher-resolutionradar-based applications, such as gesture recognition, or inimplementations of the gesture zone, recognition zone, aware mode,engaged mode, or active mode as described herein. In someimplementations, the digital beamformer 316, the angle estimator 318,the tracker module 640, and the quantizer module 644 are togetherimplemented in a single machine-learning module.

These and other capabilities and configurations, as well as ways inwhich entities of FIG. 1-6 act and interact, are set forth below. Thedescribed entities may be further divided, combined, used along withother sensors or components, and so on. In this way, differentimplementations of the electronic device 102, with differentconfigurations of the radar system 104 and non-radar sensors, can beused to implement the visual indicator for paused radar gestures. Theexample operating environment 100 of FIG. 1 and the detailedillustrations of FIGS. 2-6 illustrate but some of many possibleenvironments and devices capable of employing the described techniques.

Example Methods

FIG. 7 depicts example method 700, which enables a visual indicator forpaused radar gestures. The method 700 can be performed with anelectronic device that includes, or is associated with, a display, acomputer processor, and a radar system that can provide a radar field.The radar system and radar field can provide radar data, based onreflections of the radar field from objects in the radar field, such asa user of the electronic device (or from a portion of the user movingwithin the radar field, such as the user's hand) For example, the radardata may be generated by, and/or received through, the radar system 104,as described with reference to FIG. 1. The radar data is used todetermine interactions of the user with the electronic device, such as apresence of the user in the radar field, gestures made by the user inthe radar field (radar gestures), and movement of the user relative tothe electronic device. Based on the determination of the user'spresence, movements, and gestures, the electronic device can enter andexit different modes of functionality and present different visualelements on a display. The visual elements provide feedback to the userto indicate the user's posture with respect to the device, theavailability of different functionalities for the electronic device, andthe user's interactions with the electronic device. Additional examplesof the visual elements are described with respect to FIGS. 8-16.

The method 700 is shown as a set of blocks that specify operationsperformed but are not necessarily limited to the order or combinationsshown for performing the operations by the respective blocks. Further,any of one or more of the operations may be repeated, combined,reorganized, or linked to provide a wide array of additional and/oralternate methods. In portions of the following discussion, referencemay be made to the example operating environment 100 of FIG. 1 or toentities or processes as detailed in FIGS. 2-6, reference to which ismade for example only. The techniques are not limited to performance byone entity or multiple entities operating on one device.

At 702, a gesture-pause trigger is detected during a time period inwhich 1) a radar system is providing a radar field through which a radargesture can be determined and 2) an application capable of receiving acontrol input corresponding to the radar gesture is executing, throughthe computer processor, on the electronic device. For example, theinput-mode manager 106 can detect a gesture-pause trigger 122 during atime period in which two requirements are met. The first requirement isthat the radar system 104 is providing the radar field through which aradar gesture can be determined based on the radar data obtained fromreflections of objects in the radar field. The second requirement isthat an application on the electronic device 102 that is capable ofreceiving a control input corresponding to the radar gesture isexecuting through the computer processor (e.g., a radar-gestureapplication is executing).

As described with reference to FIG. 1, the gesture-pause trigger 122 isa condition, or set of conditions, that when present, cause theelectronic device 102 and/or the radar system 104 to enter a state inwhich radar gestures are paused (e.g., a state in which theradar-gesture applications cannot receive the control inputcorresponding to the radar gesture and/or perform an action associatedwith the control input). Generally, the gesture-pause trigger 122 is acondition that can make it difficult for the electronic device 102 orthe radar system 104 to accurately and efficiently determine whether auser's motion is a radar gesture. Examples of the gesture-pause trigger122 (described in detail with reference to FIG. 1) include anoscillating motion of the electronic device 102 that exceeds a thresholdfrequency, a motion of the electronic device at a velocity above athreshold velocity, and an oscillating motion of an object in the radarfield that exceeds a threshold frequency. In some implementations(described in more detail with reference to FIG. 1), the input-modemanager 106 can detect the gesture-pause trigger 122 using the radardata, data from the non-radar sensors 108, or a combination of both theradar data and the data from the non-radar sensors 108.

At 704, in response to detecting the gesture-pause trigger, theelectronic device enters the gesture-paused mode and a gesture-pausedfeedback element is provided on the display of the electronic device.The gesture-paused feedback element indicates that the radar-gestureapplication cannot receive the control input corresponding to the radargesture. For example, the input-mode manager 106, in response to thedetection of the gesture-pause trigger 122 during the described timeperiod, can provide a gesture-paused feedback element 124 on the display114 of the electronic device 102. The appearance of the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 indicates that the radar-gesture application cannotperform the action associated with the control input or, in someimplementations, cannot receive the control input corresponding to theradar gesture.

In some cases, the gesture-paused feedback element 124 is provided onlywhen the gesture-pause trigger 122 is detected while the electronicdevice 102 is within a threshold distance of the user 112 (e.g., withinapproximately one, three, four, five, or six feet of the user 112). Thethreshold distance from the user may be determined using the radar data,data from the non-radar sensors 108 (e.g., a proximity sensor or animage-capture sensor), or a combination of both the radar data and thedata from the non-radar sensors 108.

Generally, as described with reference to FIG. 1, the gesture-pausedfeedback element is a user-perceivable element, such as a visual elementthat appears on an active area of the display or an element that is noton the display (e.g., an LED or other lighted element, a haptic element,and/or an audio element). When the gesture-paused feedback element is avisual element that appears on the active area of the display, thegesture-paused feedback element may be provided at or along an edge ofthe display, as described with reference to FIG. 1, and may take any ofa variety of shapes, sizes, colors, and other visual parameters orproperties (e.g., luminosity, color, contrast, shape, saturation, oropaqueness).

In some implementations, as described with reference to FIG. 1, thevisual element may have an area that is a portion of the active area ofthe display that has a luminosity or other visual property that isdifferent from a luminosity or other visual property of another portionof the display that is proximate to the visual element. In this case,the visual element may also have a segment of an exterior border that iswithin a threshold distance from an edge of the active area of thedisplay. Additionally, the luminosity (or other visual parameter) of thegesture-paused feedback element may vary as the gesture-paused feedbackelement extends across a distance from the edge of the active area ofthe display (e.g., have a luminosity at or along the edge of the displaythat decreases or increases as the shape extends away from the edge). Inother implementations, the gesture-paused feedback element may appear ata location on the display that is not an edge (e.g., the gesture-pausedfeedback element may be provided in an interior region of the displayand not be adjacent to or touch an edge of the display).

As described with reference to FIG. 1, the gesture-paused feedbackelement 124 can move on the active area of the display 114 and themovement can correspond to the motion of the gesture-pause trigger 122(e.g., the velocity, oscillation frequency, or other movement of thegesture-paused feedback element 124 can correspond to the motion,velocity, or oscillation frequency of the gesture-pause trigger 122).Further, as described above, the gesture-paused feedback element 124indicates that the radar-gesture application cannot receive the controlinput corresponding to the radar gesture because of conditions that maybe unrelated to whether the user 112 has attempted to make a radargesture. The input-mode manager 106 provides the gesture-paused feedbackelement 124 based on detection of the gesture-pause trigger 122 and doesnot require that a radar gesture was attempted. Rather, thegesture-paused feedback element 124 is an alert to the user that radargestures are not currently available to control the radar-gestureapplications on the electronic device 102.

In some implementations of the method 700, the gesture-paused feedbackelement may be provided as an adjustment to a visual element that isalready being provided at or along the edge of the active area of thedisplay (e.g., a previously provided visual element indicating that theapplication operating on the electronic device has the capability toreceive radar gestures). For example, in the example shown in FIG. 1,the visual feedback element 126 is already being provided on the exampledisplay 114-1. When the gesture-pause trigger 122 is detected, thevisual feedback element 126 may be adjusted to become the examplegesture-paused feedback element 124, as shown on the example display114-2, such as by changing size, shape, color, or another visualproperty.

The color of the gesture-paused feedback element may be any suitablecolor that can be visually differentiated from the background of thedisplay on which it is provided. The color may change based on any of avariety of factors, as described with reference to FIG. 1. In someimplementations of the method 700, a component of the electronic device(e.g., the input-mode manager 106), can determine a background color ofa region of the display on which the gesture-paused feedback element isdisplayed. In response to determining the background color, thegesture-paused feedback element may be provided in another color that isdifferent from the background color, which provides human-discernablecontrast between the gesture-paused feedback element and the backgroundcolor, as described with reference to FIG. 1. In some cases, the colorof the gesture-paused feedback element can be continuously,automatically, and dynamically adjusted, based on changes to thebackground color.

As described with reference to FIG. 1, the gesture-paused feedbackelement may appear, at least in part, as a brief animation. For example,the gesture-paused feedback element may appear at the edge of the activedisplay and then grow or shrink before taking on a default appearance.Similarly, the color, luminosity, or shape may change as thegesture-paused feedback element appears or disappears (e.g., if theradar-gesture application stops operating) before taking on the defaultappearance. Further, the gesture-paused feedback element may be an imagethat appears on the display, rather than an element that appears in aregion of the display. The image may have visual parameters that aredifferent from the parameters of an ambient background of the display,such as luminosity, saturation, or color. In other cases, the ambientbackground may be an image, and the gesture-paused feedback element isthe same image, with different visual parameters, such as luminosity,saturation, color, and so forth. In this way, the gesture-pausedfeedback element can improve the user's experience by communicating tothe user that the electronic device is operating in a mode in whichradar gestures are currently not available for interacting with theelectronic device.

In some implementations of the method 700, the location of thegesture-paused feedback element (and other visual feedback elements) maybe determined based on an orientation of content on the display and/or adirection of the radar gesture that is used to interact with thecontent. For example, as described with reference to FIG. 1, a componentof the electronic device, such as the input-mode manager 106, may obtainthe orientation of the content on the display (e.g., from theapplication manager 116). Based on the orientation of the content, thedisplay can determine the direction of the radar gestures that can beused to interact with the content and provide the gesture-pausedfeedback element at a particular edge of the active area of the displaythat corresponds to the direction of the radar gesture. Thus, if thecontext of the displayed content is horizontal, the gesture-pausedfeedback element is displayed at a top edge and, if the context of thedisplayed content is vertical, the gesture-paused feedback element isdisplayed at a side edge.

Further, a change in an orientation of the electronic device withrespect to the user may be detected and, based on the change inorientation, visual feedback elements, such as the gesture-pausedfeedback element may be provided on a different edge of the display, inorder to maintain the orientation and location of the gesture-pausedfeedback element with respect to the user. For example, as describedwith reference to FIG. 1, the user may rotate the device from a verticalto a horizontal orientation to watch a video or from a horizontal to avertical orientation to read an article. Based on the change inorientation, the input-mode manager 106 can cause the display 114 toprovide the gesture-paused feedback element 124 on a different edge ofthe active display, in order to maintain an orientation and location ofthe gesture-paused feedback element 124 with respect to the user. Asnoted, the orientation of the content may also be accounted for, andthese features can be used in conjunction with each other to provide thegesture-paused feedback element on the display at the locationappropriate for the orientation of both the content on the display andthe orientation of the display with respect to the user.

In some cases, it can be determined that the radar-gesture applicationrunning on the electronic device is operating in an immersive mode(e.g., in a full-screen mode without any presented controls). Inresponse to this determination, the display can briefly or periodicallyprovide the gesture-paused feedback element when the gesture-pausetrigger is detected. For example, as described with reference to FIG. 1,the gesture-paused feedback element 124 can be provided on the displayfor a feedback-element-presentation time duration and then stop beingprovided for a non-feedback-element-presentation time duration. Both thefeedback-element-presentation time duration and thenon-feedback-element-presentation time duration may be predetermined orselectable. The time durations may be selectable (e.g., by the user orby the input-mode manager 106 based on various factors, such as the typeof radar-gesture application running in the immersive mode, the statusof the radar-gesture application, or the frequency with which the useremploys a radar gesture).

The gesture-paused feedback element (and other visual feedback elements)may fade or disappear entirely when the user interacts with theelectronic device using input other than a radar gesture (e.g., a touchor voice input). For example, as described with reference to FIG. 1, theuser may decide to start an application using a touch command on theelectronic device, while the electronic device is in the gesture-pausedstate. In this case, the gesture-paused feedback element may fade ordisappear when the user picks up the electronic device or touches thedisplay. The gesture-paused feedback element restarts when the userstops touching the display or puts down the electronic device (if thegesture-pause trigger is still detected). The gesture-paused feedbackelement may reappear or brighten immediately when the touch or voiceinput ends, or after a selectable default time duration.

Visual feedback elements, such as the gesture-paused feedback element124, can be provided while the electronic device 102 is in a lockedstate or an unlocked state. Thus, the electronic device may provide thegesture-paused feedback element when the described conditions are met,whether the user is authenticated or not authenticated. As describedwith reference to FIG. 1, the locked and unlocked states refer to alevel of access to the electronic device. A locked state may be a statein which no user is authenticated and anyone using the device will haveless than full rights or access (e.g., no access or rights, or limitedaccess or rights). Examples of the locked state may include the awareand engaged modes of the electronic device as described herein.Similarly, an unlocked state can be a state in which at least one useris authenticated, and that user has full rights and/or access to thedevice. An example of the unlocked state is the active mode of theelectronic device, as described herein.

These techniques for a visual indicator for paused radar gestures may bemore secure than other authentication and feedback techniques. Forexample, a user's position, orientation, or use of radar gestures(especially user-defined gestures, micro-gestures, and posture orposition-based gestures) are typically not duplicable or obtainable byan unauthorized person (unlike, for example, a password). Further, aradar image of the user (e.g., based on the radar data described above),even if it includes the user's face, does not visually identify the userlike a photograph or video may do. Even so, further to the descriptionsabove, the user may be provided with controls allowing the user to makean election as to both whether and when any of the systems, programs,managers, modules, or features described in this document may enablecollection of user information (e.g., images of the user, radar datadescribing the user, information about a user's social network, socialactions or activities, profession, a user's preferences, or a user'scurrent location), and whether and when the user is sent content orcommunications from a server. In addition, certain data may be treatedin one or more ways before it is stored or used, so that personallyidentifiable information is removed. For example, a user's identity maybe treated so that no personally identifiable information can bedetermined for the user, or a user's geographic location may begeneralized where location information is obtained (such as to a city,zip/postal code, or state level), so that a particular location of auser cannot be determined. Thus, the user may have control over whatinformation is collected about the user, how that information is used,and what information is provided to or about the user.

Example Visual Elements

As noted, the techniques and systems described herein can enable theelectronic device 102 to provide feedback and notification to make theuser aware of an available application that can receive input via radargestures and, in some cases, provide additional feedback regarding theuse and results of the radar gestures. The feedback and notification areprovided by one or more user-perceivable elements, such as visualelements that are presented on the display 114. The techniques andsystems can also enable a determination of the user's absence, presence,and location, which can be used to provide a more-responsive andmore-efficient authentication process. For example, the techniquesenable the electronic device to anticipate when the user is ready to beauthenticated and to more-accurately determine when to lock the devicewhen the user is away. The feedback, visual elements, and other featuresenable interactions that are more convenient and less frustratingbecause the user is aware of the input modes and can be confident aboutdifferent ways in which the device can interact and receive input. FIGS.8-19 illustrate examples of the electronic device 102 running aradar-gesture application and describe examples of the visual elementsthat can be presented on the display to provide feedback to the user.Examples of the electronic device operating in multiple different modesand examples of the visual elements that can be presented on the displayin the different modes are also described.

Consider FIG. 8, which illustrates generally, at 800, an example of avisual feedback element that can be used to indicate that aradar-gesture application is running on the electronic device 102. InFIG. 8, a detail view 800-1 shows an example display 114-3 to indicate astate of the electronic device 102 with no radar-gesture applicationrunning Another state of the electronic device 102, in which at leastone radar-gesture application is running, is shown on another exampledisplay 114-4. A visual element 802 at the top of the example display114-4 indicates that the electronic device 102 can receive input throughradar gestures, as described above. The visual element 802 is shown asan illuminated line, but, as noted above, may be presented at anotherlocation, at a different illumination level (e.g., only partiallyilluminated), or as another shape or type of element. For example, inanother detail view 800-2, an example display 114-5 is shown to indicatethe state of the electronic device 102 with no radar-gesture applicationrunning Another state of the electronic device 102, in which at leastone radar-gesture application is running, is shown on another exampledisplay 114-6. A visual element 804 at the top of the example display114-6 indicates that the electronic device 102 can receive input throughradar gestures, as described above. The visual element 804 is shown asan illuminated area (e.g., a glowing area). As with the visual element802, the visual element 804 could be presented at another location onthe display 114-6, at a different illumination level (e.g.,more-illuminated or less-illuminated), or as another shape or type ofelement. Note that for clarity, no other elements (e.g., time, date, orapplication launch icons) are shown on the example displays 114-3through 114-6. In other implementations, however, the visual elements802 or 804 may be displayed along with other content on the display.Further, the visual elements 802 or 804 may be displayed while theelectronic device 102 is in the aware mode, the engaged mode, the activemode, or another mode.

In some implementations, the electronic device 102 can also providemore-detailed visual feedback that is related to the availability ofradar gestures. For example, the input-mode manager 106, the applicationmanager 116, or another component associated with the electronic device102 can cause the display 114 to present other visual elements thatprovide feedback regarding input received through radar gestures. FIGS.9-19 illustrate additional details of some of the ways that visualelements can be used to provide the feedback related to the use of radargestures.

For instance, consider FIGS. 9A-9D, which illustrate generally, at 900,examples of a visual feedback element that may be used to indicate thata user's hand is within a gesture zone that enables a radar-gestureapplication to receive radar gestures (e.g., the gesture zone 118). Thegesture zone 118 is an area around the electronic device 102 (or theradar system 104) within which the electronic device 102 can receive,interpret, and act on radar gestures, such as a swipe or a pinch. Thegesture zone can extend any suitable distance from the electronic device102 (e.g., approximately three, five, seven, nine, or twelve inches).

In FIG. 9A, an example display 114-7 is shown in a state in which atleast one radar-gesture application is running (e.g., similar to theexample display 114-6 described with reference to FIG. 8). A user's hand902 is shown near the example display 114-7, but outside the gesturezone 118 (the border of the gesture zone is shown as a dotted line 904).An example visual element 906 is shown as a glowing area (e.g., an areaor shape with varying brightness, color, or other properties) near thetop of the example display 114-7 with a luminosity that changes withdistance from the top. In other implementations, the visual element 906could be presented at another location or as another shape or type ofelement (e.g., a line, as shown in the detail view 800-1 of FIG. 8). InFIG. 9B, the user's hand 902 moves toward the electronic device andcrosses the border 904 of the gesture zone, as shown by the arrow 908.In response to the electronic device detecting the movement 908, anothervisual element 910 replaces the visual element 906, as shown on anexample display 114-8. In this example, the visual element 910 is aglowing area that is larger than the visual element 906 and has adifferent brightness or luminosity (e.g., less-, more-, orfully-illuminated). In other implementations, the visual element 910could also be presented at another location or as another shape or typeof element.

As shown in FIG. 9C, when the user's hand 902 is within the border 904of the gesture zone, the visual element 910 can, in someimplementations, be used to provide feedback that indicates smaller,non-gesture motion of the user's hand 902, which are represented by adouble-ended arrow 912. For example, as shown on an example display114-9, the visual element can move to indicate the user's hand movementsby moving back and forth with the user's hand, as shown by an arrow 914.In FIG. 9D, the user's hand 902 is withdrawn outside the border 904 ofthe gesture zone, as shown by an arrow 916. In response to the motion ofthe user's hand, the display 114 returns to the state as shown in theexample display 114-7, in which the visual element 906 is displayed nearthe top edge of the display 114.

In some implementations (not shown in FIG. 9A-9D), the non-gesturemotions can be represented by other visual elements or changes to thevisual elements. For example, a size and/or shape can change, or acenter or focal point of the shape can move to represent the motions(while the shape itself remains stationary). Additionally oralternatively, changes to an intensity of the brightness or color can beused to represent the motion (e.g., the brightness or color of theshape, or part of the shape, change in accordance with the non-gesturemotions. The visual elements 906 and 910, along with the motion of thevisual element 910, can help the user understand when gestures areavailable, and provide feedback that indicates the electronic device 102is aware of the relative position of the user's hand, which can improvethe user's experience with the electronic device 102.

As described with reference to FIG. 9C, the electronic device 102 canprovide visual feedback to represent smaller, non-gesture motion of theuser's hand in the gesture zone, such as moving a visual element backand forth on the display, corresponding to the motion of the user'shand. Similarly, when the user makes a radar gesture (e.g., a swipinggesture to skip a song or an omni-gesture to dismiss an alert ornotification), the electronic device 102 can provide feedback to notifythe user that the gesture has been successfully received or that agesture attempt was received but it was not clear enough to be confirmedas a radar gesture or did not correspond to a radar gesture for aradar-gesture application on the electronic device. For example, FIGS.10-12 illustrate generally, at 1000 and 1100, sequences of examplevisual elements that can be used to notify the user that a gesture hasbeen successfully received.

Consider FIG. 10, which illustrates an example display 114-10 in a statein which at least one radar-gesture application is running and a user'shand 1002 is within a boundary of a gesture zone (e.g., similar to thestate represented by the example display 114-8 described with referenceto FIG. 9B). The example display 114-10 is presenting a visual element1004, shown as a glowing area (e.g., an area or shape with varyingbrightness, color, or other properties) near the top of the exampledisplay 114-10 with a luminosity that changes with distance from thetop. In this example, the visual element 1004 indicates the availabilityof radar gestures. Continuing the example, the user makes a successfulsliding or swiping gesture from left to right, as shown by the arrow1006 (e.g., a gesture that meets the criteria for a radar gesture asdescribed with reference to FIG. 1, corresponds to a control input ofthe application, and/or results in the application receiving orresponding to the control input). In response to the motion 1006 of theuser's hand 1002, the visual element 1004 also moves, as shown in asequence 1008 (shown within a dashed-line rectangle). An example display114-11 illustrates the beginning of the sequence 1008, as the visualelement 1004 begins moving to the right, as shown by an arrow 1010.

The sequence 1008 continues in another example display 114-12, in whichthe visual element 1004 bends around a corner of the example display114-12, as shown by an arrow 1012. The visual element 1004 can continuedown a side of the display 114 for a variable distance (e.g., as soon asa trailing end of the visual element completes the bend or after thetrailing end has traveled a particular distance along the side) and thendisappear. Continuing the sequence 1008 in another example display114-13, the visual element 1004 reappears or regenerates from the leftside of the example display 114-13 and moves toward the center position,as shown by an arrow 1014. In some implementations, the visual element1004 can reappear or regenerate at the initial position (as shown in theexample display 114-10), rather than from the left side. When thesequence 1008 is complete, the display returns to the state as shown inthe example display 114-10, with the visual element 1004 displayed nearthe top of the display 114 and may subtly track the user's hand 1002while the hand remains within the boundary of the gesture zone. Notethat in the example of FIG. 10, the sequence 1008 begins when the userbegins the gesture. In other cases, the gesture and the sequence 1008may be completed at different times or begin at another location on thedisplay 114 and proceed in another direction, such as right to left, topto bottom, or bottom to top (e.g., if a radar gesture moved from rightto left, top to bottom, or bottom to top).

Further, while the visual element 1004 of FIG. 10 is shown as a glowingarea near the top of the display 114, the visual element could bepresented at another location or as another shape or type of element.For example, FIG. 11 shows another example visual element 1102 as anilluminated line near the top edge of the display 114. In response to aleft-to-right motion of the user's hand 1104 (shown by an arrow 1106),the visual element 1102 also moves, as shown in a sequence 1108 (shownwithin a dashed-line rectangle). An example display 114-14 illustratesthe beginning of the sequence 1108, as the visual element 1102 beginsmoving to the right, as shown by an arrow 1110.

The sequence 1108 continues in another example display 114-15, in whichthe visual element 1102 bends around a corner of the example display114-15, as shown by an arrow 1112. As noted, the visual element 1102 maycontinue down a side of the display for a variable distance and thendisappear. Continuing the sequence 1108 in another example display114-16, the visual element 1102 reappears or regenerates from the leftside of the example display 114-16 (or reappears at the initialposition) and moves toward the center position, as shown by an arrow1114. When the sequence 1108 is complete, the display returns to a statein which the visual element 1102 is displayed near the top of thedisplay 114.

Consider another example (not illustrated), in which a user is listeningto music with a radar-gesture application on a smartphone (e.g., theelectronic device 102). Assume the user decides to skip a track andmakes a radar gesture over the smartphone. The radar gesture may be aswipe in either direction (e.g., left-to-right to skip to the next trackor right-to-left to restart the current track or skip to a previoustrack). When the user's hand enters the gesture zone, a visual elementis presented. As the user begins the radar gesture, the electronicdevice (e.g., through the radar system 104, the input-mode manager 106,or the application manager 116) presents the visual element in thesequence 1008 or 1108, as described with reference to FIGS. 10 and 11,respectively.

In some implementations, the visual elements 1004 and 1102 can move inthe horizontal direction (e.g., as shown in the example displays 114-12and 114-15) while the radar gesture is being processed. When the radargesture is successfully received (e.g., the control input is sent and/orthe application responds), the motion of the visual elements 1004 and1102 changes direction (e.g., goes around the corner as shown in theexample displays 114-13 and 114-16). This is particularly advantageousfor the human visual system as the change in direction registers veryquickly as compared, for example, to the element simply reaching theright edge of the screen.

Other examples of visual feedback elements that can indicate asuccessful radar gesture include a visual element that bends or flexes(e.g., at one end, both ends, in the middle, or at another location) toshow a successful radar gesture, such as a gesture made in a directionperpendicular to the display 114 or a gesture with a component that isperpendicular to the display 114. In other cases, the visual element1004 or 1102 may disappear at or before it reaches the corner, or it maycontinue down a side of the display 114 around the corner, or even moveall the way around the display 114.

In some implementations, a visual feedback element can provide feedbackthat is independent of the motion of the radar gestures. For example, insome implementations, an omni-gesture is used as a direction-independentradar gesture (e.g., because the omni-gesture dismisses alerts or alarmsand is not intended to move content in a direction or skip/replay music,the direction of the gesture does not matter to its function). ConsiderFIG. 12, which illustrates generally, at 1200, a sequence of examplevisual elements that can be used to notify the user that adirection-independent radar gesture has been successfully received. InFIG. 12, an example display 114-17 is shown in a state in which at leastone radar-gesture application is operating on the electronic device 102and a user's hand 1202 is within a boundary of a gesture zone (e.g.,similar to the state represented by the example display 114-8 describedwith reference to FIG. 9B). The example display 114-17 is presenting avisual element 1204, shown as a glowing area (e.g., an area or shapewith varying brightness, color, or other properties) near the top of theexample display 114-17 with a luminosity that changes with distance fromthe top. In this example, the visual element 1204 indicates theavailability of radar gestures (e.g., that a radar-gesture applicationis currently running, or stored, on the electronic device). Continuingthe example, assume that the radar-gesture application is presenting analert on the display and that the user has decided to dismiss the alert.To do so, the user makes an omni-gesture toward the electronic device102, as shown by the arrow 1206.

In response to the motion 1206 of the user's hand 1202, the visualelement 1204 changes, as shown in a sequence 1208 (shown within adashed-line rectangle). An example display 114-18 illustrates thebeginning of the sequence 1208, as the visual element 1204 becomeslarger and brighter (e.g., increases in luminosity), and includes abright line 1210 proximate to the edge of the display 114-18. Thesequence 1208 continues in another example display 114-19, in which thevisual element 1204 begins to decrease in size, as shown by adouble-ended arrow 1212. Continuing the sequence 1208 in another exampledisplay 114-20, the visual element 1204 continues to decrease in size,shrinking toward the center of the upper edge example display 114-20, asshown by a double-ended arrow 1214. The sequence 1208 continues untilthe visual element 1204 disappears (not illustrated).

When the sequence 1208 is complete, the display returns to the state asshown in the example display 114-17, with the visual element 1204displayed near the top of the display 114 and subtly tracking the user'shand 1202 while the hand remains within the boundary of the gesturezone. Note that while the sequence 1208 in the example of FIG. 12 beginswhen the user begins the gesture, the gesture and the sequence 1208 maybe completed at different times or begin at another location on thedisplay 114 and proceed in another manner or direction, such asshrinking then growing or changing color and/or brightness withoutchanging size. The examples of visual feedback elements shown in FIGS.10-12 illustrate just some of the ways in which a visual feedbackelement can be employed to help the user understand when a radar gesturehas been accepted and when the gesture is complete, which can improvethe user's experience with the electronic device 102.

Visual feedback elements can also be used to provide feedback when agesture is attempted but not received (e.g., the user's motion wasdetected but did not meet the criteria to be confirmed as a radargesture, did not correspond to a control input of the application,and/or did not result in the application receiving or responding to thecontrol input). For example, FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate generally, at1300 and 1400, sequences of example visual elements that can be used tonotify the user that a gesture has been detected but not successfullymade or received.

Consider FIG. 13, which illustrates an example display 114-21 in a statein which at least one radar-gesture application is running and in whicha user's hand 1302 is within the boundary of a gesture zone (e.g.,similar to the state represented in the example display 114-8 describedwith reference to FIG. 9B). The example display 114-21 is presenting avisual element 1304, shown as a glowing area (e.g., an area or shapewith varying brightness, color, or other properties), near the top ofthe example display 114-21, with a luminosity that changes with distancefrom the top. In this example, the visual element 1304 indicates theavailability of radar gestures and that the user's hand 1302 is withinthe gesture zone.

In the example of FIG. 13, assume that the user attempts to make asliding or swiping gesture from left to right, but fails to meet thecriteria for a swiping gesture or did not correspond to a radar gesturefor a radar-gesture application on the electronic device, as describedabove. For example, as shown by a curved arrow 1306, the user's hand1302 may fail to travel sufficient distance in a relevant directionbefore withdrawing. In this case, when the electronic device 102 (or theradar system 104) detects the motion 1306 of the user's hand 1302, whichlacks sufficient definition to be successfully determined to be a radargesture, the visual element 1304 moves as shown in a sequence 1308(shown within a dashed-line rectangle). An example display 114-22illustrates the beginning of the sequence 1308, as the visual element1304 begins moving to the right, as shown by an arrow 1310.

Continuing the sequence 1308 in another example display 114-23, thevisual element 1304 has stopped before reaching an opposite edge of theexample display 114-23. In some cases, the visual element may decreasein size compared to its starting length (as shown in the example display114-21) as it moves across the display. In other cases, the visualelement 1304 may decrease in size when it stops (e.g., it compresseswhen it gets to the stopping point).

The sequence 1308 continues in another example display 114-24, in whichthe visual element 1304 reverses direction and begins to move backtoward its original location (the center in this example), as shown byanother arrow 1312. If the visual element 1304 decreased in size as itwas moving or when it stopped its movement, then it can also begin togrow back to its original length as it moves back or when it completesits return. In other implementations, rather than stopping (and, in somecases, shrinking), the visual element 1304 may slow and bounce beforereversing direction. When the sequence 1308 is complete, the displayreturns to the state as shown in the example display 114-21, with thevisual element 1304 displayed near the top of the example display 114and subtly tracking the user's hand 1302 while it remains within theboundary of the gesture zone (e.g., as shown in FIG. 9A-9D).

Other examples of sequences that show an unsuccessful radar-gestureattempt include a visual element that partially collapses on itself,such as by briefly shrinking, and then returns to its original size andposition. For example, in some implementations, a visual feedbackelement can provide feedback that is independent of the motion of theradar gesture (an omni-gesture). In these implementations, the feedbackcan be a sequence of changes to the visual element.

FIG. 14 illustrates another sequence of example visual elements that canbe used to notify the user that a gesture (e.g., an omni-gesture) hasfailed to be successfully made or received. In FIG. 14, an exampledisplay 114-25 is shown in a state in which at least one radar-gestureapplication is running and in which a user's hand 1402 is within theboundary of a gesture zone (e.g., similar to state represented in theexample display 114-8 described with reference to FIG. 9B). The exampledisplay 114-25 is presenting a visual element 1404, shown as a glowingarea (e.g., an area or shape with varying brightness, color, or otherproperties), near the top of the example display 114-25, with aluminosity that changes with distance from the top. In this example, thevisual element 1404 indicates the availability of radar gestures andthat the user's hand 1402 is within the gesture zone.

In the example of FIG. 14, assume that the user attempts to make anomni-gesture, as described above, but the gesture does not meet thecriteria for an omni-gesture or did not correspond to a radar gesturefor a radar-gesture application on the electronic device. For example,as shown by a curved arrow 1406, the user's hand 1402 may fail to travelsufficient distance before withdrawing. In this case, when theelectronic device 102 (or the radar system 104) detects the motion 1406of the user's hand 1402, which lacks sufficient definition to besuccessfully determined to be a radar gesture, the visual element 1404moves as shown in a sequence 1408 (shown within a dashed-linerectangle). An example display 114-26 illustrates the beginning of thesequence 1408, as the visual element 1404 begins to dim in brightnessand starts to shrink, as shown by a double-ended arrow 1410. Continuingthe sequence 1408 in another example display 114-27, the visual element1404 stops shrinking and begins to brighten and expand, as shown byanother double-ended arrow 1412. The sequence 1408 continues in anotherexample display 114-28, in which the visual element 1404 returns to thestate as shown in the example display 114-25, with the visual element1404 displayed near the top of the example display 114 and subtlytracking the user's hand 1402 while it remains within the boundary ofthe gesture zone (e.g., as shown in FIG. 9A-9D).

The motion of the visual elements 1304 and 1404 can help the userunderstand when a gesture has not been successfully completed. Thishelps the user learn better techniques for making successful radargestures and also allows the user to become aware when an attemptedgesture fails (e.g., so it can be attempted again, if necessary), whichcan improve the user's experience with the electronic device 102.

Note that the sequences 1308 and 1408 may begin when the electronicdevice 102 (or the radar system 104) detects (e.g., using one or moresubsets of the radar data) that the user has attempted a radar gesture,but also determines that the gesture fails to meet at least onecriterion that is necessary for acceptance. Accordingly, the attemptedgesture and the sequence 1308 (or 1408) may be completed at differenttimes, depending on the nature of the attempted gesture and the speed ofthe sequence 1308 (or 1408). Further, as described above, while both thevisual elements 1304 and 1404 are shown as a glowing area near the topof the display 114, the visual elements 1304 and 1404 may be presentedat another location or as another shape or type of element (e.g., anilluminated line, as shown in the detail view 800-1 of FIG. 8). Eitheror both of the sequences 1308 or 1408 could also begin at anotherlocation on the display 114 and proceed in another direction, such asright to left, top to bottom, or bottom to top (e.g., if an attemptedradar gesture moved from right to left, top to bottom, or bottom totop).

Generally, the electronic device 102 includes a gesture-paused mode thatcan turn off or suspend the radar-gesture capabilities of the electronicdevice 102. The gesture-paused mode can be activated when thegesture-pause trigger 122 is detected, as described with reference toFIG. 1. When the gesture-pause trigger 122 is detected, the electronicdevice enters the gesture-paused mode and the input-mode manager 106provides the gesture-paused feedback element 124. As noted, thegesture-pause trigger 122 can be any of a variety of circumstances, asdescribed with reference to FIG. 1, such as an oscillating motion of theelectronic device 102 that exceeds a threshold frequency, a motion ofthe electronic device at a velocity above a threshold velocity, or anoscillating motion of an object in the radar field, such as the user 112(or a portion of the user 112), that exceeds a threshold frequency. Thegesture-paused feedback element 124 can be presented with motion thatcorresponds to the gesture-pause trigger 122.

In a case in which the gesture-pause trigger is an oscillating motion ofthe electronic device, the corresponding movement of the visual elementis a decrease in luminosity (or another visual property) of at leastpart of the gesture-paused feedback element 124 and a decrease in a sizeof the gesture-paused feedback element 124. In some cases, thegesture-paused feedback element 124 may shrink and dim and then remainin that state until the gesture-pause trigger 122 is no longer detected(e.g., the gesture-paused mode ends). In other cases, the gesture-pausedfeedback element 124 may also move laterally (back and forth) and thefrequency of the lateral movement may approximately match theoscillation frequency of the electronic device 102. In still otherimplementations, the gesture-paused feedback element 124 can “pulse” oralternate between an original form and the dimmed and shrunken form andthe pulsation frequency can match the oscillation frequency of theelectronic device 102.

In another case, in which the gesture-pause trigger is an oscillatingmotion of the object in the radar field (e.g., the user 112 or a portionof the user 112, such as a hand), the corresponding movement of thegesture-paused feedback element 124 is a decrease in luminosity (oranother visual property) of at least part of the gesture-paused feedbackelement 124 and a decrease in a size of the gesture-paused feedbackelement 124. In some cases, the gesture-paused feedback element 124 mayshrink and dim and then remain in that state until the gesture-pausetrigger 122 is no longer detected (e.g., the gesture-paused mode ends).In other cases, the gesture-paused feedback element 124 may also movelaterally (back and forth) and the frequency of the lateral movement mayapproximately match the oscillation frequency of the object in the radarfield. In still other implementations, the gesture-paused feedbackelement 124 can “pulse” or alternate between an original form and thedimmed and shrunken form and the pulsation frequency can match theoscillation frequency of the object in the radar field.

In either case (the gesture-pause trigger 122 being oscillation of theelectronic device 102 or oscillation of the object in the radar field),the corresponding movement of the gesture-paused feedback element 124can be the lateral movement or pulsation (including the matchingfrequencies), as described above, without a change in luminosity orsize.

The electronic device 102 may determine to enter the gesture-paused modebased on input from any of a variety of sensors, including a radarsensor (e.g., the radar system 104), an inertial measurement unit (IMU),a proximity sensor (e.g., an active infrared proximity sensor), and soforth. For example, if the user is walking and listening to audiocontent with the electronic device 102 in the user's hand, swinging backand forth, the motion may be similar to a radar-based swipe gesture, butthe user does not intend to skip tracks or adjust the volume.Accordingly, because the motion of the electronic device 102 canintroduce ambiguity into the gesture interpretation process, theelectronic device 102 may determine to enter the gesture-paused modeuntil the ambiguity is resolved (e.g., the user stops walking).

FIG. 15 illustrates generally, at 1500, example visual elements (e.g.,examples of the gesture-paused feedback element 124) that may be used toindicate that a radar-gesture application is available to receive radargestures, but that gestures are currently paused. The gesture-pausedmode may be activated whenever radar gestures are available, whether theuser's hand is in or out of the gesture zone. In FIG. 15, an exampledisplay 114-29 is shown in a state in which at least one radar-gestureapplication is running and a user's hand is within the boundary of agesture zone (e.g., similar to the state represented in the exampledisplay 114-8 described with reference to FIG. 9B). The example display114-29 is presenting a visual element 1502, shown as a glowing area nearthe top of the example display 114-29, to indicate the availability ofradar gestures and that the user's hand is within the gesture zone. Ifthe user takes an action that causes the electronic device 102 to enterthe gesture-paused mode (e.g., the gesture-pause trigger 122 isdetected, such as by the user's hand moving back and forth as the useris walking, as shown by an arrow 1504), the visual element 1502 canchange, as shown in a sequence 1506 (within a dashed-line rectangle).

An example display 114-30 illustrates the beginning of the sequence 1506as the visual element 1502 dims in brightness and shrinks, as shown inthe example display 114-30 by a double-ended arrow 1508. The sequence1506 continues in another example display 114-31, in which the visualelement 1502 has stopped shrinking and is displayed near the center ofthe top edge of the display 114-31. The smaller, dimmer, visual element1502 indicates that the gesture-paused mode is engaged. The sequence1506 ends when the gesture-pause trigger ends and the visual element1502 returns to the state shown in the example display 114-29.

As described above, the visual element 1502 is shown as a glowing areanear the center of the top of the display 114. In other implementations,the sequence 1506 can also begin at another location on the display 114(e.g., depending on the orientation of content on the display 114, thedirection of the radar gestures, or another factor) or the visualelement 1502 can be presented at another location or as another shape ortype of element. In some cases, the example visual element 1502 can havea color (e.g., blue, green, or a combination of more than one color). Inthese cases, the step described with reference to the example display114-30 or 114-31 may include a change in color. The change may be toanother color, such as blue to yellow. In other cases, the visualelement 1502 becomes colorless, and is merely a contrasting glowingarea, so that against a dark background it is a lighter area and againsta light background it is a darker area.

For example, FIG. 16 shows, generally at 1600, another example sequence1602 that describes another visual feedback element (e.g., another formof the gesture-paused feedback element 124) that can be used to show auser that the electronic device 102 is in the gesture-paused mode. InFIG. 16, an example display 114-32 is shown in a state in which at leastone radar-gesture application is running and a user's hand is within theboundary of a gesture zone (e.g., similar to the state represented inthe example display 114-8 described with reference to FIG. 9B). Theexample display 114-32 is presenting a visual element 1604, shown as anilluminated line near the top of the example display 114-32, to indicatethe availability of radar gestures and that the user's hand is withinthe gesture zone. The example sequence 1602 (shown within a dashed-linerectangle) begins with an example display 114-33, in which anothervisual element 1606 replaces the visual element 1604, in response to theelectronic device 102 detecting the gesture-pause trigger 122 (e.g., anaction that causes the electronic device 102 to enter the gesture-pausedmode, such as the movement 1504 described with reference to FIG. 15). Asshown on the example display 114-33, the visual element 1606 is anotherline that is shorter and dimmer than the visual element 1604.

The sequence 1602 continues in another example display 114-34, in whichthe visual element 1606 begins moving to the right, as shown by an arrow1608. Continuing the sequence 1602 in another example display 114-35,the visual element 1606 moves to the left as shown by an arrow 1610. Inthe sequence 1602, the visual element 1606 may stop and reversedirection before it reaches a side of the display or go all the way tothe edge before reversing direction. In some implementations, the visualelement 1606 may further shrink when it stops to reverse directions andthen return to another size when, after, or as, it begins moving in theopposite direction.

Further, the oscillation of the visual element 1606 may match thecondition upon which the gesture-paused mode is based. For example, inthe case of the user's arms swinging, the velocity or frequency of theoscillation of the visual element 1606 may approximately match thevelocity or frequency of the user's hand moving. In some cases, thesequence 1602 can also begin at another location on the display 114 andproceed in another direction, such as right to left, top to bottom, orbottom to top (e.g., depending on the orientation of content on thedisplay 114, the direction of the radar gestures, or another factor).When the electronic device 102 exits the gesture-paused mode, thesequence 1506 (or 1602) is complete and the display 114 returns to anappropriate state, depending on whether there are radar-gestureapplications running and on the location of the user's hand.

The sequences 1506 and 1602 can help the user understand when gesturesmay be paused and allow the user to adjust how the electronic device 102is used to avoid or take advantage of the gesture-paused mode, which canimprove the user's experience with the electronic device 102. Forexample, the movement of the gesture-paused feedback element 124 thatmatches the movement of the user in the radar field or of the electronicdevice 102 helps communicate to the user that the gesture-paused modehas been activated, because there is correlation between the motion ofthe gesture-paused feedback element 124 and the state of the electronicdevice 102 (movement or oscillation).

In some cases (not shown in FIG. 15 or FIG. 16), the user's motion maynot introduce ambiguity, such as a situation in which the user iswalking with the electronic device and holding it steady in front of theuser. In these cases, the electronic device does not enter thegesture-paused mode and the visual element 1502 (or 1604) may change oneor more visual parameters to alert the user that radar gestures areavailable, even while the user and the electronic device are in motion.For example, the visual element 1502 (or 1606) may change from a defaultcolor to another color (e.g., from grey to blue, grey to white, or whiteto blue).

In some implementations, the electronic device 102 can determine thatthe radar-gesture application running on the electronic device 102 isoperating in an immersive mode (e.g., in a full-screen mode without anypresented controls). In response to this determination, the display canperiodically provide the visual elements described with reference toFIGS. 8-16 (e.g., the visual elements 802, 804, 906, 910, 1004, 1102,1204, 1304, 1404, 1502, 1604, 1606, and/or the gesture-paused feedbackelement 124). For example, the visual element can be provided on thedisplay for a time duration and then stop being provided for anothertime duration. The time durations may be selectable (e.g., by a user orby the electronic device 102, based on factors such as the type ofradar-gesture application running in the immersive mode, the status ofthe radar-gesture application, or the frequency with which the useremploys a radar gesture).

Further, the visual elements described above with reference to FIGS.8-16 (e.g., the visual elements 802, 804, 906, 910, 1004, 1102, 1204,1304, 1404, 1502, 1604, 1606, and/or the gesture-paused feedback element124), may be presented in any suitable color that can be visuallydifferentiated from the background of the display on which it ispresented. Further, the color of the visual elements may change based onany of a variety of factors, such as an operational state of theelectronic device or an ambient background color of the display. Forexample, the radar system 104, input-mode manager 106, applicationmanager 116, or another entity, module, or manager, can determine abackground color of a region of the display on which the visual elementis, or will be, displayed. In response to determining the backgroundcolor, the visual element may be presented in another color that isdifferent from the background color. The different color can providehuman-discernable contrast between the visual element and the backgroundcolor to make it easier for the user to see the visual element. In somecases, the color of the visual element can be continuously,automatically, and dynamically adjusted, based on changes to thebackground color.

In some cases, as described herein, the visual element may be hiddeneven when radar gestures are available (e.g., because the userinteracted with a voice or touch input, or in order to reduce the riskof screen burn-in). In this situation, the visual element (e.g., theexample visual elements illustrated in FIGS. 8-16), may still be shownwhen the appropriate conditions are met (e.g., the user makes asuccessful or unsuccessful radar gesture or the gesture-paused mode isactivated). Consider a variation of the music player example above, inwhich the visual element is hidden while the user is listening to musicand using a voice input to open another application. In this example,the user performs a radar gesture to skip a song, and the displaypresents the sequence 1008 (or 1108) to notify the user that the radargesture was successful.

The user's location and movements can also be used to detect useractions that are categorized as indications of the user's intention tointeract (or not interact) with the electronic device. For example, theelectronic device may have access to a library (e.g., in a memorydevice) of actions that are categorized as indicators of a user's intentto interact or not interact with the device (e.g., reaching for theelectronic device, turning or walking toward or away from the electronicdevice, leaning toward or looking at the electronic device). In somecases, the electronic device may also include machine-learningtechnology that can add, remove, or modify the actions stored in thelibrary. Based on the detection of the user's presence, movements, andintention, the electronic device can cause the electronic device toenter and exit different modes of functionality and present differentvisual elements on a display, based on the modes. These modes can enabledifferent functionalities for the electronic device, and help the userunderstand the mode the electronic device is operating in, and theservices and functions that are available. FIGS. 17-19 illustrate theelectronic device operating in the multiple modes and describe examplesof the visual elements that can be presented on the display in thedifferent modes.

For instance, when the user is not detected near the electronic device(e.g., within the radar field 110 or the recognition zone), the deviceoperates in a dormant mode. In the dormant mode, the display (e.g., thedisplay 114) may present fewer visual elements than in other modes, orno visual elements and the display may be on or off. When the electronicdevice determines the presence of the user within the recognition zone(e.g., using radar data, or one or more subsets of the radar data, fromthe radar system 104), the electronic device exits the dormant mode andenters an aware mode. In the aware mode, the display presents one ormore visual elements that can indicate a status or functionality levelof the electronic device.

While the electronic device is in the aware mode, the electronic devicecan detect a user action that is categorized as an indication of a userintent to interact with the electronic device. In response to detectingthis user action, the electronic device can prepare an authenticationsystem to perform an authentication process. In some implementations,when the electronic device detects the indication of the user's intentto interact, the electronic device also exits the aware mode and entersan engaged mode. In the engaged mode, the display presents additional oralternate visual elements that can indicate changes in the status orfunctionality level of the electronic device. The electronic device canalso detect a trigger event and, based on the trigger event, cause theauthentication system to authenticate the user. In response to the userbeing authenticated, the electronic device exits the aware or engagedmode and enters an active mode. In the active mode, the display presentsadditional or alternate visual elements that can indicate changes in thestatus or functionality level of the electronic device.

FIG. 17 illustrates an example 1700 of an electronic devicetransitioning from the dormant mode to the aware mode. A detail view1700-1 shows the electronic device 102 in the dormant mode while a user1702 is outside of a recognition zone 1704. In this example, therecognition zone 1704 has a wedge shape, but as noted, the recognitionzone 1704 can take any suitable shape or size. Continuing the example,in this case the display 114 is not presenting any visual elements inthe dormant mode, as shown on an example display 114-36. In anotherdetail view 1700-2, the user 1702 is closer to the electronic device102, which has determined that the user 1702 has entered the recognitionzone 1704. Based on this determination, the electronic device 102 exitsthe dormant mode and enters the aware mode, as shown by an arrow 1706.

In the detail view 1700-2, multiple visual elements are presented on anexample display 114-37. For example, in the aware mode, the exampledisplay 114-37 presents a time-of-day element 1708 (a clock), a dateelement 1710, a connectivity status element 1712 (e.g., Wi-Fi, cellular,or other network connectivity), and a battery-level indicator element1714 (including a graphical element and a percentage indicator). In thedetail view 1700-2, the remainder of the example display 114-37 isblank. In some implementations, however, additional elements may bedisplayed, including a background image, such as a wallpaper or otherimage. Though not shown in FIG. 17, if the user 1702 exits therecognition zone 1704, the electronic device 102 may stop displaying thevisual elements and return to the dormant mode (immediately or after theuser 1702 has been outside the recognition zone 1704 for a selectablepredetermined amount of time).

FIG. 18 illustrates an example 1800 of an electronic devicetransitioning from the aware mode to the optional engaged mode. A detailview 1800-1 shows the user 1702 within the recognition zone 1704 and theelectronic device 102 in the aware mode, as described with reference toFIG. 17, including displaying multiple visual elements (1708, 1710,1712, 1714) on an example display 114-38. Another detail view 1800-2shows the user 1702 reaching for the electronic device 102. Theelectronic device 102 detects the reach (e.g., using one or more subsetsof the radar data) as a user action that is an indication of a userintent to interact with the electronic device 102. In response todetecting this user action indicating intent, the electronic device 102exits the aware mode and enters the engaged mode, as shown by an arrow1802.

In the detail view 1800-2, additional visual elements are presented onan example display 114-39. For example, in the engaged mode, the exampledisplay 114-39 presents a background image 1804 (in this case, an imageof the Golden Gate Bridge). The background image 1804 may have dynamicfeatures that adjust with the context of the user, such as animation, orvarying brightness or transparency levels that change depending on thedistance or speed of the reach. While in the engaged mode, theelectronic device 102 also prepares an authentication system to performan authentication process (note that in some cases, the electronicdevice 102 does not enter the engaged mode and instead prepares theauthentication system while in the aware mode, in response to the useraction that indicates user intent). Accordingly, the example display114-39 also presents a lock icon 1806, which indicates that full accessto the electronic device 102 is unavailable until the user 1702 isauthenticated. In some implementations, additional visual elements maybe displayed on the example display 114-39, and some or all of thevisual elements presented on the example display 114-38 may cease beingpresented. Though not shown in FIG. 18, if the user 1702 withdraws thereach gestures, the electronic device 102 may exit the engaged mode andreturn to the aware mode (immediately or after the reach has beenwithdrawn for a selectable predetermined amount of time).

FIG. 19 illustrates an example 1900 of an electronic devicetransitioning from the engaged mode to the active mode after the user1702 is authenticated (note that in some implementations, the electronicdevice can transition to the active mode from the aware mode). A detailview 1900-1 shows the user 1702 within the recognition zone 1704 and theelectronic device 102 in the engaged mode, as described with referenceto FIG. 18, including displaying multiple visual elements on an exampledisplay 114-40 (1708, 1710, 1712, 1714, 1804, 1806). As noted withreference to FIG. 18, when the user reaches for the electronic device102, the authentication system prepares to authenticate the user 1702.In FIG. 19, another detail view 1900-2 shows that the user 1702 haspicked up the electronic device 102. The electronic device 102determines that being picked up is a trigger event, as described above,and authenticates the user 1702. When the user 1702 is authenticated,the electronic device 102 exits the engaged mode (or the aware mode) andenters an active mode, as shown by an arrow 1902.

Additional visual elements associated with the active mode may also bepresented on an example display 114-41, as shown in the detail view1900-2. For example, in the active mode, the example display 114-41continues to present the visual elements associated with the aware mode,but the background image 1804 (associated with the engaged mode) haschanged to another background image 1904, a beach silhouette (note thatbecause the background image 1904 has a different color scheme, some ofthe visual elements have changed contrast or color so that they remainvisible to the user 1702). Additionally, the engaged mode lock icon 1806has transitioned to an unlock icon 1906, which indicates that the user1702 is authenticated. In some implementations, the unlock icon 1906 maybe presented for a duration of time and then fade. While not illustratedin FIG. 19, additional visual elements may be displayed on the exampledisplay 114-41 after the unlock icon 1906 fades, such as an instruction(e.g., “Swipe or tap to open”), one or more application launch icons, orother visual elements available to the electronic device 102.

In some implementations, the user 1702 may remain authenticated whilethe user 1702 remains within the recognition zone (e.g., the recognitionzone 1704) or within another defined area within which the radar systemcan detect the presence of the user 1702. In these implementations, thedisplay 114 may remain powered and able to receive input and presentcontent, or the screen may turn off to save battery power. Because theuser 1702 remains authenticated, even if the screen is off, the user canaccess the electronic device 102 by touching the screen, picking up thedevice, or another action, without having to be re-authenticated. Inthis way, the user's enjoyment and experience with the electronic device102 can be improved while preserving battery power.

Further, the described progression between modes (e.g., from the dormantmode, through the aware and engaged modes, to authentication and theactive mode), may instead run in an opposite direction. For example,when the electronic device 102 is in the active mode and the user 1702sets it down (e.g., another trigger event occurs), the electronic devicemay enter a locked state (e.g., de-authenticate the user 1702), and/orplace the electronic device 102 in the engaged or aware mode, asdescribed above. Accordingly, if the user's hand remains near theelectronic device 102 (e.g., remains in a “reach” position), theelectronic device 102 may remain in the engaged mode. Conversely, if theuser's hand is withdrawn, the electronic device 102 may enter the awaremode. Then, as noted, the electronic device 102 may remain in the awaremode while the user is in the recognition zone. During this progressionbetween zones, the display 114 may present the visual elements describedabove for each zone, to indicate the changing status of the electronicdevice 102 to the user 1702.

As noted, in some implementations, applications running on theelectronic device 102 may be able to receive input through radar-basedtouch-independent gestures (radar gestures). In these cases, the radarsystem 104 may detect a reach by the user and perform actions, based onthe context of the electronic device 102. For example, when theelectronic device is in any of the modes described above, the user mayreceive a phone call, receive an alarm, alert, or notification, or playmusic through the electronic device. In these situations, the user mayreach toward the electronic device to respond to the action. Thus, areach may reduce or silence the ringer or notification during anincoming call or an alarm. Further, if the user notices an alert ornotification is being displayed, and reaches toward the electronicdevice, the notification may be dismissed or become interactive. Forexample, upon detecting the user's reach, the electronic device maydisplay the notification in a mode that allows the user to respond bydismissing or postponing the alert/notification, replying (in the caseof a message or email notification), or in another manner. In somecases, the displayed notification may change color or size as well. Inthe example of the user listening to music, a reach may cause theelectronic device to present a control screen for the music player, sothat the user can control the track, volume, or other parameter.

Some or all of these features may be available in different modes, andwhich features are available may be user-selectable. For example, theuser may allow volume silencing and music control in all modes but allowresponding to alerts and notifications only in the active mode (e.g.,when the user has been authenticated and has not left the recognitionzone). Other combinations of features and permission levels may also beselected by the user.

Among the advantages of the described implementations, includingimplementations in which radar sensing is used to detect the presence ofthe user within a recognition zone, and further includingimplementations in which radar is used to detect user action that iscategorized as an indication of a user intent to interact with theelectronic device, either of which might alternatively be achievableusing the on-device camera that is provided with most modernsmartphones, is that the power usage of the radar facility issubstantially less than the power usage of the camera facility, whilethe propriety of the results can often be better with the radar facilitythan with the camera facility. For example, using the radar facilitydescribed hereinabove, the desired user-state or user-intentiondetection can be achieved at average power ranging from single-digitmilliwatts to just a few dozen milliwatts (e.g., 10 mW, 20 mW, 30 mW or40 mW), even including the processing power for processing the radarvector data to make the determinations. At these low levels of power, itwould be readily acceptable to have the radar facility in an always-onstate. As such, for example, with the smartphone radar facility in thealways-on state, the desired delightful and seamless experiencepresently described can still be provided for a user that has beensitting across the room from their smartphone for many hours.

In contrast, the optical cameras provided with most of today'ssmartphones typically operate at hundreds of milliwatts of power (e.g.,an order of magnitude higher than 40 mW, which is 400 mW). At such powerrates, optical cameras would be disadvantageous because they wouldsignificantly reduce the battery life of most of today's smartphones, somuch so as to make it highly impractical, if not prohibitive, to havethe optical camera in an always-on state. An additional advantage of theradar facility is that the field of view can be quite large, readilyenough to detect a user walking up from any direction even when lyingflat and face-up on a table (for many typical implementations in whichthe radar chip is facing outward in the same general direction as theselfie camera) and, furthermore, by virtue of its Doppler processingability can be highly effective (especially at operating frequenciesnear 60 GHz) in detecting even relatively subtle movements of movingbodies from the variety of directions.

Additionally, the radar facility can operate in environments in whichthe performance of the camera facility is reduced or restricted. Forexample, in lower-light environments, the camera facility may have areduced ability to detect shape or movement. In contrast, the radarfacility performs as well in lower light as in full light. The radarfacility can also detect presence and gestures through some obstacles.For instance, if the smartphone is in a pocket of a jacket or pair ofpants, a camera facility cannot detect a user or a gesture. The radarfacility, however, can still detect objects in its field, even through afabric that would block the camera facility. An even further advantageof using a radar facility over an onboard video camera facility of asmartphone is privacy, because a user can have the advantages of theherein described delightful and seamless experiences while at the sametime not needing to be worried that there is a video camera taking videoof them for such purposes.

Example Computing System

FIG. 20 illustrates various components of an example computing system2000 that can be implemented as any type of client, server, and/orelectronic device as described with reference to the previous FIGS. 1-19to implement a visual indicator for paused radar gestures.

The computing system 2000 includes communication devices 2002 thatenable wired and/or wireless communication of device data 2004 (e.g.,radar data, authentication data, reference data, received data, datathat is being received, data scheduled for broadcast, and data packetsof the data). The device data 2004 or other device content can includeconfiguration settings of the device, media content stored on thedevice, and/or information associated with a user of the device (e.g.,an identity of a person within a radar field or customized gesturedata). Media content stored on the computing system 2000 can include anytype of radar, biometric, audio, video, and/or image data. The computingsystem 2000 includes one or more data inputs 2006 via which any type ofdata, media content, and/or inputs can be received, such as humanutterances, interactions with a radar field (e.g., a radar gesture),touch inputs, user-selectable inputs or interactions (explicit orimplicit), messages, music, television media content, recorded videocontent, and any other type of audio, video, and/or image data receivedfrom any content and/or data source.

The computing system 2000 also includes communication interfaces 2008,which can be implemented as any one or more of a serial and/or aparallel interface, a wireless interface, any type of network interface,a modem, and as any other type of communication interface. Thecommunication interfaces 2008 provide a connection and/or communicationlinks between the computing system 2000 and a communication network bywhich other electronic, computing, and communication devices communicatedata with the computing system 2000.

The computing system 2000 includes one or more processors 2010 (e.g.,any of microprocessors, controllers, or other controllers) that canprocess various computer-executable instructions to control theoperation of the computing system 2000 and to enable techniques for, orin which can be implemented, the visual indicator for paused radargestures. Alternatively or additionally, the computing system 2000 canbe implemented with any one or combination of hardware, firmware, orfixed logic circuitry that is implemented in connection with processingand control circuits, which are generally identified at 2012. Althoughnot shown, the computing system 2000 can include a system bus or datatransfer system that couples the various components within the device.The system bus can include any one or combination of different busstructures, such as a memory bus or memory controller, a peripheral bus,a universal serial bus, and/or a processor or local bus that utilizesany of a variety of bus architectures. Also not shown, the computingsystem 2000 can include one or more non-radar sensors, such as thenon-radar sensors 108.

The computing system 2000 also includes computer-readable media 2014,such as one or more memory devices that enable persistent and/ornon-transitory data storage (e.g., in contrast to mere signaltransmission), examples of which include random access memory (RAM),non-volatile memory (e.g., any one or more of a read-only memory (ROM),flash memory, EPROM, EEPROM, etc.), and a disk storage device. A diskstorage device may be implemented as any type of magnetic or opticalstorage device, such as a hard disk drive, a recordable and/orrewriteable compact disc (CD), any type of a digital versatile disc(DVD), and the like. The computing system 2000 can also include a massstorage media device (storage media) 2016.

The computer-readable media 2014 provides data storage mechanisms tostore the device data 2004, as well as various device applications 2018and any other types of information and/or data related to operationalaspects of the computing system 2000. For example, an operating system2020 can be maintained as a computer application with thecomputer-readable media 2014 and executed on the processors 2010. Thedevice applications 2018 may include a device manager, such as any formof a control application, software application, signal-processing andcontrol modules, code that is native to a particular device, anabstraction module, a gesture recognition module, and/or other modules.The device applications 2018 may also include system components,engines, modules, or managers to implement the visual indicator forpaused radar gestures, such as the radar system 104, the input-modemanager 106, the application manager 116, or the gesture library 120.The computing system 2000 may also include, or have access to, one ormore machine-learning systems.

Several examples are described below.

Example 1: A method implemented in an electronic device that includes adisplay, a computer processor, and a radar system, the methodcomprising: detecting a gesture-pause trigger, the detecting during aperiod in which: the radar system provides a radar field through which aradar gesture can be determined; and an application capable of receivinga control input corresponding to the radar gesture is executing, throughthe computer processor, on the electronic device; and providing, inresponse to detecting the gesture-pause trigger, a gesture-pausedfeedback element on the display of the electronic device, thegesture-paused feedback element indicating that the application cannotperform an action associated with the control input.

Example 2: The method of example 1, wherein the gesture-pause trigger isat least one of: an oscillating motion of the electronic device, a firstoscillation frequency of the oscillating motion of the electronic deviceexceeding a first threshold frequency; a motion of the electronic deviceat a velocity above a threshold velocity; or an oscillating motion of anobject in the radar field, a second oscillation frequency of theoscillating motion of the object in the radar field exceeding a secondthreshold frequency.

Example 3: The method of example 1 or example 2, wherein thegesture-paused feedback element is a visual element that appears on anactive area of the display.

Example 4: The method of example 3, wherein the visual element moves onthe active area of the display, the movement corresponding to thegesture-pause trigger.

Example 5: The method of example 4, wherein the gesture-pause trigger isthe oscillating motion of the electronic device and the correspondingmovement of the visual element comprises: a decrease from a firstluminosity of at least part of the visual element to a second luminosityof the at least part of the visual element; and a decrease from a firstsize of the visual feedback element to a second size of the visualfeedback element.

Example 6: The method of example 5, wherein the corresponding movementof the visual element further comprises a lateral oscillation of thevisual element, the lateral oscillation having a frequency that isapproximately a same frequency as the first oscillation frequency of theoscillating motion of the electronic device.

Example 7: The method of example 4, wherein the gesture-pause trigger isthe oscillating motion of the object in the radar field and thecorresponding movement of the visual element comprises: a decrease froma first luminosity of at least part of the visual element to a secondluminosity of the at least part of the visual element; and a decreasefrom a first size of the visual element to a second size of the visualelement.

Example 8: The method of example 7, wherein the corresponding movementof the visual element further comprises a lateral oscillation of thevisual element, the lateral oscillation having a frequency that isapproximately a same frequency as the second oscillation frequency ofthe oscillating motion of the object in the radar field.

Example 9: The method of example 4, wherein: the gesture-pause triggeris the oscillating motion of the electronic device and the correspondingmovement of the visual element comprises a lateral oscillation of thevisual element, the lateral oscillation having a frequency that isapproximately a same frequency as the first oscillation frequency of theoscillating motion of the electronic device; or the gesture-pausetrigger is the oscillating motion of the object in the radar field andthe corresponding movement of the visual element comprises a lateraloscillation of the visual element, the lateral oscillation having afrequency that is approximately a same frequency as the secondoscillation frequency of the oscillating motion of the object in theradar field.

Example 10: The method of any of the preceding examples, furthercomprising: determining a background color of a region of the display onwhich the gesture-paused feedback element is displayed; and responsiveto determining the background color of the region of the display onwhich the gesture-paused feedback element is displayed, causing thedisplay to present the gesture-paused feedback element in another colorthat is different from the background color, the different coloreffective to provide human-discernable contrast between thegesture-paused feedback element and the region of the display on whichthe gesture-paused feedback element is displayed.

Example 11: The method of any of the preceding examples, furthercomprising: in response to detecting the gesture-pause trigger, causingthe electronic device to: exit a current state in which the applicationcan perform the action associated with the control input; and enter anew state in which the application cannot perform the action associatedwith the control input.

Example 12: An electronic device, comprising: a display; a computerprocessor; a radar system, implemented at least partially in hardware,configured to: provide a radar field; sense reflections from a user inthe radar field; analyze the reflections from the user in the radarfield; and provide, based on the analysis of the reflections, radardata; and a computer-readable media having instructions stored thereonthat, responsive to execution by the computer processor, implement aninput-mode manager configured to: detect a gesture-pause trigger, thedetection during a period in which: the radar system is providing theradar field through which a radar gesture can be determined based on theradar data; and an application capable of receiving a control inputcorresponding to the radar gesture is executing, through the computerprocessor, on the electronic device; and provide, in response to thedetection of the gesture-pause trigger, a gesture-paused feedbackelement on the display of the electronic device, the gesture-pausedfeedback element indicating that the application cannot perform anaction associated with the control input.

Example 13: The electronic device of example 12, wherein thegesture-pause trigger is at least one of: an oscillating motion of theelectronic device, a first oscillation frequency of the oscillatingmotion of the electronic device exceeding a first threshold frequency; amotion of the electronic device at a velocity above a thresholdvelocity; or an oscillating motion of an object in the radar field, thesecond oscillation frequency of the oscillating motion of the object inthe radar field exceeding a second threshold frequency.

Example 14: The electronic device of example 12 or example 13, whereinthe gesture-paused feedback element is a visual element that appears onan active area of the display of the electronic device.

Example 15: The electronic device of example 14, wherein the visualelement moves on the active area of the display, the movementcorresponding to the gesture-pause trigger.

Example 16: The electronic device of example 15, wherein thegesture-pause trigger is the oscillating motion of the electronic deviceand the corresponding movement of the visual element comprises: adecrease from a first luminosity of at least part of the visual elementto a second luminosity of the at least part of the visual element; and adecrease from a first size of the visual feedback element to a secondsize of the visual feedback element.

Example 17: The electronic device of example 16, wherein thecorresponding movement of the visual element further comprises a lateraloscillation of the visual element, the lateral oscillation having afrequency that is approximately a same frequency as the firstoscillation frequency of the oscillating motion of the electronicdevice.

Example 18: The electronic device of example 15, wherein thegesture-pause trigger is the oscillating motion of the object in theradar field and the corresponding movement of the visual elementcomprises: a decrease from a first luminosity of at least part of thevisual element to a second luminosity of the at least part of the visualelement; and a decrease from a first size of the visual feedback elementto a second size of the visual feedback element.

Example 19: The electronic device of example 18, wherein thecorresponding movement of the visual element further comprises a lateraloscillation of the visual element, the lateral oscillation having afrequency that is approximately a same frequency as the secondoscillation frequency of the oscillating motion of the object in theradar field.

Example 20: The electronic device of example 15, wherein: thegesture-pause trigger is the oscillating motion of the electronic deviceand the corresponding movement of the visual element comprises a lateraloscillation of the visual element, the lateral oscillation having afrequency that is approximately a same frequency as the firstoscillation frequency of the oscillating motion of the electronicdevice; or the gesture-pause trigger is the oscillating motion of theobject in the radar field and the corresponding movement of the visualelement comprises a lateral oscillation of the visual element, thelateral oscillation having a frequency that is approximately a samefrequency as the second oscillation frequency of the oscillating motionof the object in the radar field.

Example 21: The electronic device of any of examples 12-20, wherein theinput-mode manager is further configured to: determine a backgroundcolor of a region of the display on which the gesture-paused feedbackelement is displayed; and responsive to determining the background colorof the region of the display on which the gesture-paused feedbackelement is displayed, cause the display to present the gesture-pausedfeedback element in another color that is different from the backgroundcolor, the different color effective to provide human-discernablecontrast between the gesture-paused feedback element and the region ofthe display on which the gesture-paused feedback element is displayed.

Example 22: The electronic device of any of examples 12-21, wherein theinput-mode manager is further configured to: in response to detectingthe gesture-pause trigger, cause the electronic device to: exit acurrent state in which the application can perform the action associatedwith the control input; and enter a new state in which the applicationcannot perform the action associated with the control input

CONCLUSION

Although implementations of techniques for, and apparatuses enabling, avisual indicator for paused radar gestures have been described inlanguage specific to features and/or methods, it is to be understoodthat the subject of the appended claims is not necessarily limited tothe specific features or methods described. Rather, the specificfeatures and methods are disclosed as example implementations enablingthe visual indicator for paused radar gestures.

What is claimed is:
 1. A method implemented in an electronic device thatincludes a display, a computer processor, and a radar system, the methodcomprising: detecting a gesture-pause trigger, the gesture-pause triggercomprising a condition that reduces an accuracy in determining whether auser's motion is a radar gesture, the detecting during a period inwhich: the radar system provides a radar field through which the radargesture can be determined; and an application capable of receiving acontrol input corresponding to the radar gesture is executing, throughthe computer processor, on the electronic device; and providing, inresponse to detecting the gesture-pause trigger, a gesture-pausedfeedback element on the display of the electronic device, thegesture-paused feedback element indicating that the application cannotperform an action associated with the control input.
 2. The method ofclaim 1, wherein the condition that reduces the accuracy in determiningwhether the user's motion is the radar gesture comprises at least oneof: an oscillating motion of the electronic device at a first frequencythat is excessive for the accuracy in determining whether the user'smotion is the radar gesture; a motion of the electronic device at avelocity that is excessive for the accuracy in determining whether theuser's motion is the radar gesture; or an oscillating motion of anobject in the radar field at a second frequency that is excessive forthe accuracy in determining whether the user's motion is the radargesture.
 3. The method of claim 2, wherein the gesture-paused feedbackelement is a visual element that appears on an active area of thedisplay.
 4. The method of claim 3, wherein the visual element moves onthe active area of the display, the movement corresponding to thecondition that reduces the accuracy in determining whether the user'smotion is the radar gesture.
 5. The method of claim 4, wherein thecondition that reduces the accuracy in determining whether the user'smotion is the radar gesture comprises the oscillating motion of theelectronic device and the corresponding movement of the visual elementcomprises: a decrease from a first luminosity of at least part of thevisual element to a second luminosity of the at least part of the visualelement; and a decrease from a first size of the visual feedback elementto a second size of the visual feedback element.
 6. The method of claim5, wherein the corresponding movement of the visual element furthercomprises a lateral oscillation of the visual element, the lateraloscillation having a frequency that is approximately a same frequency asthe first frequency.
 7. The method of claim 4, wherein the conditionthat reduces the accuracy in determining whether the user's motion isthe radar gesture comprises the oscillating motion of the object in theradar field and the corresponding movement of the visual elementcomprises: a decrease from a first luminosity of at least part of thevisual element to a second luminosity of the at least part of the visualelement; and a decrease from a first size of the visual element to asecond size of the visual element.
 8. The method of claim 7, wherein thecorresponding movement of the visual element further comprises a lateraloscillation of the visual element, the lateral oscillation having afrequency that is approximately a same frequency as the secondfrequency.
 9. The method of claim 4, wherein: the condition that reducesthe accuracy in determining whether the user's motion is the radargesture comprises the oscillating motion of the electronic device andthe corresponding movement of the visual element comprises a lateraloscillation of the visual element, the lateral oscillation having afrequency that is approximately a same frequency as the first frequency;or the condition that reduces the accuracy in determining whether theuser's motion is the radar gesture comprises the oscillating motion ofthe object in the radar field and the corresponding movement of thevisual element comprises a lateral oscillation of the visual element,the lateral oscillation having a frequency that is approximately a samefrequency as the second frequency.
 10. The method of claim 3, furthercomprising: determining whether the user is interacting with theelectronic device using input other than a radar gesture; responsive toa determination that the user is interacting with the electronic deviceusing input other than a radar gesture, modifying the appearance of thevisual element by causing the visual element to decrease in brightnessor disappear; or responsive to another determination that the user hasceased interacting with the electronic device using input other than aradar gesture, modifying the appearance of the visual element by causingthe visual element to increase in brightness or reappear.
 11. The methodof claim 1, further comprising: determining a background color of aregion of the display on which the gesture-paused feedback element isdisplayed; and responsive to determining the background color of theregion of the display on which the gesture-paused feedback element isdisplayed, causing the display to present the gesture-paused feedbackelement in another color that is different from the background color,the different color effective to provide human-discernable contrastbetween the gesture-paused feedback element and the region of thedisplay on which the gesture-paused feedback element is displayed. 12.The method of claim 1, further comprising: responsive to detecting thegesture-pause trigger, causing the electronic device to: exit a currentstate in which the application can perform the action associated withthe control input; and enter a new state in which the application cannotperform the action associated with the control input.
 13. An electronicdevice, comprising: a display; a computer processor; a radar system,implemented at least partially in hardware, configured to: provide aradar field; sense reflections from a user in the radar field; analyzethe reflections from the user in the radar field; and provide, based onthe analysis of the reflections, radar data; and a computer-readablemedia having instructions stored thereon that, responsive to executionby the computer processor, implement an input-mode manager configuredto: detect a gesture-pause trigger, the gesture-pause trigger comprisinga condition that reduces an accuracy in determining whether a user'smotion is a radar gesture, the detection during a period in which: theradar system is providing the radar field through which the radargesture can be determined based on the radar data; and an applicationcapable of receiving a control input corresponding to the radar gestureis executing, through the computer processor, on the electronic device;and provide, in response to the detection of the gesture-pause trigger,a gesture-paused feedback element on the display of the electronicdevice, the gesture-paused feedback element indicating that theapplication cannot perform an action associated with the control input.14. The electronic device of claim 13, wherein the condition thatreduces the accuracy in determining whether the user's motion is theradar gesture comprises at least one of: an oscillating motion of theelectronic device at a first frequency that is excessive for theaccuracy in determining whether the user's motion is the radar gesture;a motion of the electronic device at a velocity that is excessive forthe accuracy in determining whether the user's motion is the radargesture; or an oscillating motion of an object in the radar field at asecond frequency that is excessive for the accuracy in determiningwhether the user's motion is the radar gesture.
 15. The electronicdevice of claim 14, wherein the gesture-paused feedback element is avisual element that appears on an active area of the display of theelectronic device.
 16. The electronic device of claim 15, wherein thevisual element moves on the active area of the display, the movementcorresponding to the condition that reduces the accuracy in determiningwhether the user's motion is the radar gesture.
 17. The electronicdevice of claim 16, wherein the condition that reduces the accuracy indetermining whether the user's motion is the radar gesture comprises theoscillating motion of the electronic device and the correspondingmovement of the visual element comprises: a decrease from a firstluminosity of at least part of the visual element to a second luminosityof the at least part of the visual element; and a decrease from a firstsize of the visual feedback element to a second size of the visualfeedback element.
 18. The electronic device of claim 17, wherein thecorresponding movement of the visual element further comprises a lateraloscillation of the visual element, the lateral oscillation having afrequency that is approximately a same frequency as the first frequency.19. The electronic device of claim 16, wherein the condition thatreduces the accuracy in determining whether the user's motion is theradar gesture comprises the oscillating motion of the object in theradar field and the corresponding movement of the visual elementcomprises: a decrease from a first luminosity of at least part of thevisual element to a second luminosity of the at least part of the visualelement; and a decrease from a first size of the visual feedback elementto a second size of the visual feedback element.
 20. The electronicdevice of claim 19, wherein the corresponding movement of the visualelement further comprises a lateral oscillation of the visual element,the lateral oscillation having a frequency that is approximately a samefrequency as the second frequency.
 21. The electronic device of claim16, wherein: the condition that reduces the accuracy in determiningwhether the user's motion is the radar gesture comprises the oscillatingmotion of the electronic device and the corresponding movement of thevisual element comprises a lateral oscillation of the visual element,the lateral oscillation having a frequency that is approximately a samefrequency as the first frequency; or the gesture-pause trigger comprisesthe oscillating motion of the object in the radar field and thecorresponding movement of the visual element comprises a lateraloscillation of the visual element, the lateral oscillation having afrequency that is approximately a same frequency as the secondfrequency.
 22. The electronic device of claim 15, wherein the input-modemanager is further configured to: determine that the user is interactingwith the electronic device using input other than a radar gesture;responsive to the determination that the user is interacting with theelectronic device using input other than a radar gesture, modify theappearance of the visual element by causing the visual element todecrease in brightness or disappear; determine that the user has ceasedinteracting with the electronic device using input other than a radargesture; and responsive to the determination that the user has ceasedinteracting with the electronic device using input other than a radargesture, modify the appearance of the visual element by causing thevisual element to increase in brightness or reappear.
 23. The electronicdevice of claim 13, wherein the input-mode manager is further configuredto: determine a background color of a region of the display on which thegesture-paused feedback element is displayed; and responsive todetermining the background color of the region of the display on whichthe gesture-paused feedback element is displayed, cause the display topresent the gesture-paused feedback element in another color that isdifferent from the background color, the different color effective toprovide human-discernable contrast between the gesture-paused feedbackelement and the region of the display on which the gesture-pausedfeedback element is displayed.
 24. The electronic device of claim 13,wherein the input-mode manager is further configured to, responsive todetecting the gesture-pause trigger, cause the electronic device to:exit a current state in which the application can perform the actionassociated with the control input; and enter a new state in which theapplication cannot perform the action associated with the control input.